Benefits of Vitamin B8 (Inositol), a Nutrient for Mental Health

Did you know that B vitamins consist of various kinds? In addition to the commonly known vitamins B1, B3, and B12, there is also vitamin B8 known as inositol. Vitamin B8 turns out to have many benefits, what are they?

Health Benefits of Vitamin B8 (Inositol)

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Vitamin B8 (inositol) is a type of sugar that has many uses for the body. Although it is referred to as vitamin B8, inositol is actually different from the vitamin B complex in general.

The main function of vitamin B8 is to be part of the body's cell membranes. This vitamin works with proteins, fats, sugars, and phosphates to form strong cell membranes so that they can carry out their functions.

This type of vitamin that is contained in many fruits and vegetables also affects the sending of signals and chemicals from the brain. In addition, the intake of vitamin B8 also affects the function of certain hormones in your body.

So far, some of the known benefits of vitamin B8 can be described in the review below.

1. Relieve symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormone disorder that can cause irregular periods and fertility problems. One of the conditions associated with PCOS is metabolic syndrome, which is characterized by high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

However, a 2017 study showed that intake of inositol and folic acid could potentially relieve PCOS by treating metabolic syndrome. This vitamin has been shown to work by lowering blood pressure and controlling blood sugar.

2. Helps increase fertility

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About 72% of women with PCOS experience fertility problems. This is because hormonal imbalances can inhibit the growth and release of eggs (ovulation). If ovulation does not occur, the egg cannot be fertilized and pregnancy is more difficult.

The good news, a study reports that inositol and folic acid supplements can encourage ovulation. The researchers found this after giving an intake of 4 grams of vitamin B8 and 400 micrograms of folic acid for three months.

3. Potential to treat cancer

Inositol has other forms, namely phytate, phytic acid, and hexaphosphate. Although not yet proven effective, all three have the potential to inhibit the spread of cancer, improve the function of anticancer drugs, and indirectly improve the patient's quality of life.

Types of cancer that can be prevented from developing with inositol are lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancer. However, phytic acid can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients in the body so its use should be supervised by a doctor.

4. Helps control blood sugar

Various studies have proven that vitamin B8 can help control blood sugar due to metabolic syndrome. This vitamin works by increasing the function of insulin, the hormone that converts excess blood sugar into energy reserves.

In addition, intake of 4 grams of inositol and 400 micrograms of folic acid also has the potential to prevent gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs in pregnant women and can cause a number of complications.

5. Relieve the symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome in babies

Premature babies are prone to respiratory distress syndrome because their lungs are not fully developed. However, research shows that intake of inositol of as much as 80 milligrams per kilogram of baby weight can help overcome this.

Babies who receive vitamin B8 injections need fewer rescue breaths via an oxygen tube. Their quality of life also improved by 77%. The risk of complications such as impaired airway development also decreases.

6. Helps relieve symptoms of mental disorders

Mental disorders can be caused by problems with the nervous system and the production of chemicals in the brain. Interestingly, experts have found that some people with OCD, depression and anxiety disorders have low levels of inositol in their brains.

Vitamin B8 is thought to work by affecting the central nervous system and improving mood. Thanks to these benefits, the administration of vitamin B8 is considered to have the potential to be an alternative treatment for several psychiatric problems.

Vitamin B8 plays an important role in alleviating the symptoms of various diseases, both physical and psychological. Therefore, make sure you meet the needs of this vitamin by eating a variety of citrus fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Consumption of supplements has also been shown to be beneficial for the body. However, consult your doctor first so you know the right dose of vitamins.