• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition

Studies Show Benefits of Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro-Inositol for Women with PCOS

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist
July 22, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Promising research is proving there may be a natural way to support women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, in managing insulin levels. Myo-Inositol and D-chiro-inositol are worth learning more about!

Inositol is a member of the B-Complex family of vitamins important in maintaining cell structure and integrity. Inositol acts as a lipotropic agent within the body to help emulsify fats, for weight management and to redistribute body fat. The body produces its own inositol from glucose although researchers and doctors alike are unsure how exactly it does so. One theory is that it is produced by intestinal bacteria.*

What are Myo-Inositol and D-chiro-inositol?

Myo-Inositol and D-chiro-inositol (from here on referred to as MYO and DCI) are two of nine forms, or isomers, of inositol that have been studied for their potential to aid the bodies of women with PCOS in properly utilizing insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to overall hormonal imbalance and is a common symptom for women with PCOS. Every tissue in the body has its own ratio of MYO to DCI – MYO being higher and producing DCI when needed.

Myo-Inositol is found in human tissues and a variety of food sources, which include unprocessed grains (oats, wheat germ and bran), fresh citrus fruits (except lemons), cantaloupe, brewer’s yeast, unrefined molasses, liver, lima beans, raisins, peanuts, cabbage, and lecithin.

D-chiro-inositol is not known to be naturally abundant in most diets. The human body makes DCI from MYO via the action of an enzyme called epimerase.

The Study Shows:

A 2014 study published in Gynecological Endocrinology aimed to evaluate how MYO and DCI affected women with PCOS. Fifty women clinically diagnosed with PCOS participated in this study. They were broken into two groups: 25 women given 4 grams of myo-inositol plus 400 micrograms of folic acid per day for six months and another 25 women were given 1 gram of D-chiro-inositol plus 400 micrograms of folic acid per day.

The Results

The women in the MYO/folic acid group reported, “statistically significant reductions of diastolic and systolic blood pressure, lowering of luteinizing hormone (LH), lowering of the LH/FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) ratio lowering of total testosterone and free testosterone and androstenedione and prolactin and the HOMA Index (homeostasis model assessment)- to check for insulin resistance. These same patients also had a statistically significant increase of SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) and of the glycemia/immunoreactive insulin ratio.”

The women in the DCI/folic acid group showed “a statistically significant reduction of systolic, but not diastolic blood pressure, a statistically significant reduction of the Gallwey-Ferriman Score (a measure of hirsutism), of LH, LH/FSH ratio, total testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione, prolactin and the HOMA Index.”

The Conclusion

While MYO may impact metabolic profile, weight loss and testosterone levels, the DCI affected to a greater degree the circulating androgens, both MYO and DCI show support for being able to:

  • improve the body’s ability to spontaneously ovulate
  • lower
  • help the body properly utilize insulin

Both MYO and DCI are known as insulin-sensitizing agents for women with PCOS. When insulin levels are balanced, the body is better able to regulate overall reproductive function, including hormone balance, ovarian function, egg quality, and the menstrual cycle.

Dr. Tori Hudson reminds us that “Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in reproductive aged women. The majority of women with PCOS (about 74%) do not ovulate, almost half (about 42%) have insulin-resistance, and almost half (48%) have hyperandrogenism.” These statistics alone signify the importance of this research. Researchers are learning that all of the activities of MYO and DCI are enhanced when MYO and DCI are combined. According to the PCOS Nutrition Center, “Women with PCOS who took a combination of MYO and DCI with a physiologic ratio of 40:1 (as seen in blood plasma), had better results than taking one supplement alone.”

What Additional Studies Show

1.

Gynecological Endocrinology

2. Another study published in the The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism showed that “After the 8-week myo-inositol treatment, there was a significant reduction in LH/FSH ratio, FSH, prolactin, androstenedione, testosterone, insulin, and BMI compared to baseline; there was also a significant increase in the glucose/insulin ratio (8.4±0.9 to 12.1±0.2, P<0.01).”

In Closing

No two cases of PCOS present the same in women diagnosed with this syndrome. We have learned that making dietary and lifestyle changes are first and foremost critical. It is only when these are in place that herbs, nutritional supplements, and natural therapies are able to be most effective. Caffeine depletes inositol stores, so part of this dietary change should be to limit or quit caffeine entirely. MYO and DCI are an important consideration as part of a PCOS natural health restoration program. Being that PCOS can greatly affect a woman’s fertility, any new research pointing to promoting proper function of the body through natural means, such as MYO and DCI supplementation, is exciting!

*Should this be the case, this is yet another reason to boost gut flora – think probiotics.

References

  • Combination of Myo­-inositol and D­-chiro­-inositol: A First­ Line Treatment for PCOS ­(2014, October 1). Retrieved from: http://www.pcosnutrition.com/combination-of-myo-inositol-and-d-chiro-inositol-for-pcos/
  • Haas, E., & Levin, B. (2006). Vitamins. In Staying healthy with nutrition: The complete guide to diet and nutritional medicine (21st century ed., pp. 134­-135). Berkeley, California: Celestial Arts.
  • Hudson, T. (2015, April 29). Comparison of myo inositol and D’Chiro Inositol in PCOS women. Retrieved from: http://drtorihudson.com/general/nutrition/comparison-of-myo-inositol-and-d-chiro-inositol-in-pcos-women/
  • Nestler, J., Jakubowicz, D., Reamer, P., Gunn, R., & Allan, G. (1999, April 29). Ovulatory and Metabolic Effects of d’Chiro Inositol in the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — NEJM. Retrieved from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199904293401703
  • Nordio, M., & Proietti, E. (2012, May 16). The combined therapy with myo inositol and D’Chiro Inositol reduces the risk of metabolic disease in PCOS overweight patients compared to myo inositol supplementation alone. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, Retrieved from: https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/1357.pdf
  • Tais, S. (2013, August 1). Myo Inositol in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Natural Medicine Journal, Retrieved from: https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2013-08/myo-inositol-polycystic-ovarian-syndrome
  • Unfer, V., Carlomagno, G., Dante, G., & Facchinetti, F. (2012). Effects of myo­inositol in women with PCOS: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Gynecological Endocrinology. Retrieved from: http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gianfranco_Carlomagno/publication/221797391_Effects_of_myO-inositol_in_women_with_PCOS_a_systematic_review_of_randomized_controlled_trials/links/0c960515aa603d7727000000.pdf

« Previous Post
Miscarriage Resources - From Prevention to Recovery
Next Post »
Success Story: How Diana Managed Her PCOS to Achieve Pregnancy

About the Author

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett is the Senior Herbalist and Lead Educator at NaturalFertilityInfo.com. She holds a BS in Mass Communications (2000) from Minnesota State University, and a Master of Arts degree (MA, 2010) in Holistic Health Studies with a specialization is herbalism from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. Liz has written over 200 articles on women's fertility and brings a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise in holistic health and healing to Natural Fertility Info.com

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Q: Does having PMS mean hormonal imbalance?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us