Role of Dietary Myo-Inositol in Diabetes and Diabetic Complications

Abstract

Inositol, a sugar produced in the body and found in various foods, exists in different forms, with Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol (DCI) being the most prevalent in dietary supplements. These forms are recognized for their insulin-mimetic properties, aiding in the regulation and stabilization of postprandial blood sugar levels. Imbalances in inositol metabolism are linked to insulin resistance and microvascular complications in diabetes, suggesting that adequate inositol levels are crucial for optimal metabolic health.

This study explores the potential benefits of Myo-inositol supplements in managing or preventing complications associated with diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), as well as other insulin resistance-related conditions like neuropathy, nephropathy, and cataracts. It assesses the effectiveness of Myo-inositol in clinical and animal studies, tracing its dietary origins and excretion. The review also examines how inositol impacts insulin sensitivity, highlighting the role of inositol glycans as signaling molecules in insulin activity, with the goal of understanding Myo-inositol's therapeutic potential in metabolic health.