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Posted on Mar 19, 2008, 9 a.m.
By Bill Freeman
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Inositol, unofficially referred to as vitamin B8, is found in all body tissues. It can be obtained from the diet by eating lecithin, organ meats, wheat germ, whole grains, brewer
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Inositol, unofficially referred to as vitamin B8, is found in all body tissues. It can be obtained from the diet by eating lecithin, organ meats, wheat germ, whole grains, brewer’s yeast, blackstrap molasses, peanuts, and citrus fruit.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Used with choline, inositol helps to metabolize fats and cholesterol in the arteries and liver. It also helps to promote the body’s production of lecithin. It is important in cell survival in bone marrow, eye membranes, and intestines. Used in combination with vitamin E it may help nerve damage in certain forms of muscular dystrophy. In certain cases, it may prevent thinning hair arid baldness. Inositol also assists with brain cell nutrition and when used with choline it may help with menstrual problems. A number of studies have found evidence to suggest that inositol may be useful for the treatment of depression and anxiety.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
There are none officially recognized, however, deficiency may cause constipation, eczema, abnormalities of the eyes, hair loss, and high cholesterol.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
500-l,000mg. No RDA has been established.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
Not established - no adverse effects were noted with doses as high as 18-times the recommended therapeutic dose, however no long-term studies have been conducted.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
None knownPeople taking lithium should not take supplementary inositol.
