Supplement Review: Ovasitol for PCOS
Written by Jordyn King BS, MS
What is Ovasitol?
Ovasitol is an inositol medical grade supplement for woman to help alleviate PCOS symptoms. Ovasitol combines both myo and d-chiro-inositol that mimic’s the body’s own ratio. This supplement is shown to promote menstural regularity, reduce insulin levels regulate, restore hormone balances, improve quality in ovulation and normal ovarian function to women. Ovasitol contains an unflavored inositol powder, packaged in either convenient, single-serving packets or a canister with a scoop. The women who will benefit from this product is women trying to promote normal hormone and lipid levels and regular menstrual cycles may benefit from taking Ovasitol. Additionally, women who are trying to conceive, may promote egg quality. For Women who are trying to conceive, it is recommended take Ovasitol along with a preconception prenatal supplement, Ovasitol is designed for continuous, long-term use. Ovasitol has been shown to work at leasf 3 months with continuous use. If you are taking ovasitol to promote fertility and egg quality, reviews has said it takes up to 6 weeks for any future results. The typical recommended dose of 4,000 mg a day.
So, What is Inositol ?
Ovasitol is the first and only inositol supplement. Inositol is a pseudo vitamin found in fruits, beans, grains, and nuts and is also made by the body. They are a complex of B vitamins. Consuming Inositol from the diet can be done through consuming rich sources of grains, beans, nuts and fresh fruits and vegetables. While there are nine forms of inositol, myo (MYO) and d-chiro-inositol (DCI) types have been well studied in women with PCOS, both showing good results in regards to improving both metabolic and reproductive aspects. Research suggests that insulin receptors may be defective. in those who have PCOS. Women with PCOS have cells that take longer for glucose to enter, but shorter for insulin to enter, which is abnormal. However, inositol helps to let glucose in quickly and do their main job in response to the glucose resulting in less insulin being secreted. Initially, inositol works as a secondary messenger for quick responders to glucose. Studies have shown inositol promotes healthy hormone levels, which may support regular menstrual cycles and healthy ovarian function. Thus, inositol is targeted to women treating PCOS and for women who are seeking increased fertility.
Can Ovasitol help Women Lose Weight?
According to some studies, Ovasitol could promote weight loss. In one study, women taking Ovasitol had significant weight loss compared to women taking a placebo pill. Keep in mind, it’s important to continue eating a within a calorie deficit while being physically active when taking this supplement. Some women claim when taking ovasitol that they have a significant reduction in carbohydrate cravings.
The Side Effects
From many reports, Ovasitol is well tolerated. However, many experts recommend starting with one dose a day while consuming it with a meal for the first week to minimize any risk of side effects. Ovasitol can lower blood sugar levels, however it is still a safe product to use. For example, mixing one packet of Ovasitol into your drink for breakfast or adding it to your daily smoothie is recommended. But remeber, talk to your health care provider before taking this product to treat PCOS. Ovasitol may not be a concern for everyone since PCOS symptoms are indiviudalized and need to be treated differently for each patient.
Is it Safe to Take Metformin and Ovasitol together?
Metformin, an insulin-sensitizing agent, is used to help lower insulin levels, hormone levels and alleviate common PCOS symptoms similar to ovasitol. However, metformin is not approved to specifically treat PCOS. Some women have asked if there’s any health risk when taking ovasitol with metformin or taking ovasitol instead of metformin. Both of these supplements have been shown to affect insulin levels and restore ovulation. However, they may be too potent when taken together. Research suggests that Ovasitol has been shown to improve insulin levels, sugar levels, ovarian function, improve hormone levels, increase fertility and regulate cycles better than metformin. Studies do actually indicate that it is safe to take metroformin and ovasitol together. Remember to always talk to your doctor first about taking any new medication.
In Conclusion…
From the research I have reviewed, it is safe to take Ovasitol. However, everyone who has PCOS does not need to take ovasitol unless they have high blood sugar levels (insulin resistance), restoring ovulation, and improving fertility. Taking this supplement with a meal is recommended. Taking Ovasitol with Metformin is safe as well, however Metformin has very limited research and from some studies is not approved to specifically treat PCOS in women. Women who are no longer menstruating can take Ovasitol because it can still help with metabolic aspects like cholesterol and insulin resistance. Talk to your doctor when taking this supplement because everyone is different in how they react to certain medications.Additonally, consuming Inositol from the diet can be done such as consuming rich sources of grains, beans, nuts and fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep in mind that staying active and eating well will promote weight loss and it could also alleviate some symptoms in PCOS.
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