Posted by katekite on July 19, 2002, at 9:57:18
In reply to Re: Information overload on depression, bipolar, etc. » Shawn. T., posted by turalizz on July 19, 2002, at 5:25:18
Inositol
Inositol functions very closely with another B-complex vitamin, choline. Because it is not essential in the human diet, it cannot be considered a vitamin. It is a fundamental ingredient of cell membranes and is necessary for proper nerve, brain, and muscle function. Inositol is lipotropic, and works in conjunction with folacin, Vitamins B-6 and B-12, choline, betaine and methionine to prevent the accumulation of fats in the liver. It exists as the fiber component phytic acid, which has been investigated for its anti-cancer properties. Inositol is primarily used in the treatment of liver problems, depression, panic disorder, and diabetes. Studies of inositol as a treatment for liver disorders are forthcoming.Inositol compounds have demonstrated stunning qualities in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Inositol can increase the differentiation and normalization of cancer cells, according to recent research. The abundance of inositol hexaphosphate in fiber may explain in part why high-fiber diets are associated with a lower incidence of certain cancers.1
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and acetylcholine in the brain depend on inositol to function properly. Low levels of this nutrient may result in depression. Boosting inositol levels appears to be a promising treatment for depressive conditions. Its effect on depression led to a study designed to test its effectiveness against panic disorder. The 1995 study reported that inositol can reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks in patients with panic disorders.2
Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disease caused by diabetes. The loss of inositol from the nerve cell is a major cause of the decreased nerve function. Researchers found in 1983 that inositol supplements may improve nerve conduction velocities in diabetics. This condition may be treated partially, though not exclusively, by inositol supplements.3
1 Shamsuddin AM, Journal of Nutrition, 1995;125 (suppl):725S-32S.
2 Benjamin J, et al., Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry 152, 1084-1086, 1995, as cited in Podell, R, Inositol found effective for depression and panic-anxiety, NFM's Nutritional Science News, 1996; 1:8, 18.
3 Gegerson G, Harb H, Helles A, and Christensen J, Oral supplementation of myoinositol: Effects of peripheral nerve function in human diabetics and on the concentration in plasma, erythrocytes, urine and muscle tissue in human diabetics and normals. Acta Neurol Scand 67, 164-171, 1983.
This information is from: http://www.healthhelper.com/vitamins/vitamins/inositol.htm
poster:katekite
thread:112842
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