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Vitamins and Minerals -
Inositol
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Inositol
What is Inositol?
Inositol is an essential molecule belonging to the B vitamins group, which creates relaxing effect and helps maintain the health of cell membranes.
Inositol is a chief substance for the proper functioning of the brain, nerves and muscles.
How does Inositol work and what is it used for?
In the treatment of insomnia, depression and anxiety inositol is venerated for its ability to elevate GABA levels. GABA is a chief inhibitory nutrient in the brain, that is the chemical compound which calms overexcited brain cells, thus providing the feelings of relaxation and inner comfort.
Inositol is also believed to have the influence on the levels of serotonin, "happy brain chemical", which levels together with GABA are also insufficient during the times of insomnia.
Inositol also takes part in the transmission of nerve signals, enabling optimal interaction between the cells, what means good mental and physical health, bright mood and sparkling energy.
For its abilities to produce calming actions on the central nervous system, inositol is used to treat depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, agoraphobia, mood swings, premenstrual tension, sleeping difficulties and panic disorders.
In large dosages its efficiency can be higher than that of certain prescription remedies for these conditions, whereas its side effects are fewer.
Furthermore, inositol is used in the therapy of liver problems, diabetes and osteoporosis.
Dangers of Inositol deficiency
Inositol deficiency could be a co-factor in the development of the health concerns such as depression, panic attacks, anxiety disorder, substance abuse, memory loss, heart disease, liver disease, dermatitis, hair loss, bowel problems, sight problems and elevated cholesterol levels.
Dietary sources of Inositol
The foods where Inositol is the most plentiful include brewer's yeast, liver, beans, brown rice, grains, nuts, wheat germ, oak flakes raisins, and fruits, especially bananas.
Conclusion:
Due to its impact on the main brain inhibitory (soothing) neurotransmitters, serotonin and GABA, inositol can be greatly beneficial for the cure of insomnia, depression and anxiety disorders.
Complementary nutrients
Inositol creates synergetic effect working together with choline to calm overstressed and anxious brain as well as to build and protect the cell membranes.
Availability and dosage
500 mg twice daily
Side effects and precautions:
Inositol is rather safe at reasonable doses, but can cause the side effects when taken in high doses continuously. The most frequent side effects of inositol are gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, faintness and weariness, but they usually resolve by themselves after the consumption of inositol is discontinued.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is given for educational purposes only. Thorough health assessment done by a health care professional is necessary before deciding to take any of the supplements mentioned.
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