“I’ve taken this supplement myself for the last two years and all through IVF, and honestly, it’s been such a game-changer,” says Fox. “For me, the biggest difference was feeling more balanced – like my body was finally working with me instead of against me. My cycles became more regular, my energy levelled out, and I just felt more in control of my health.” It’s inositol’s Swiss Army knife-esque ability to tackle multiple different problems at once that make it such an asset.

Many women with PCOS struggle with insulin resistance and weight gain, both of which inositol tackles by regulating blood glucose and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Inositol can also help reduce androgen levels – music to the ears of those struggling with hirsutism, acne and menstrual irregularities as a result of higher-than-usual testosterone, for example. OVA’s director of nutrition, BANT-registered nutritional therapist Alison Hall, points to a 2024 study which demonstrated a 68 per cent improvement in cycle regularity for women with PCOS over a six month period.

“The beauty of myo-inositol is that it tackles PCOS from multiple angles,” Hall says. “Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to dampen the chronic low-grade inflammation associated with PCOS. In this way it creates a domino effect of positive changes – improving insulin sensitivity, balancing hormones, supporting egg quality and reducing inflammatory responses.”

But it’s not only PCOS sufferers who could benefit from regular inositol supplementation. Studies have suggested that it could reduce the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant people, whilst its hormone-balancing properties may help alleviate other hormonal conditions. “Inositol may provide effective support to quell perimenopausal fluctuations and the symptoms of hot flashes, mood swings and irregular periods that come with it,” Hall adds.

Inositol’s effects on insulin and blood sugar could also make it an interesting tool in the treatment of some metabolic conditions, as well as tackling plain old sugar cravings. The natural supplements brand Artah has three supplements containing inositol within its range – Enhanced Fertility, Advanced Multi-Nutrient and its bestselling Metabolic Fix. The latter has been created to support
healthy metabolism, combat sweet cravings and boost energy levels, and inositol is key to its success.

“Metabolic Fix targets metabolism, cravings, and healthy blood sugar regulation, so inositol plays a synergistic role alongside other actives like chromium, berberine, and alpha lipoic acid – it supports insulin signalling and blood sugar control,” says Rhian Stephenson, nutritional therapist and the founder of Artah.

And if it sounds too good to be true? Well, so far the research does paint an incredibly positive picture. Hall is clear that it’s “not a magic bullet”, and is far more effective when combined with diet and lifestyle tweaks, but since it’s well tolerated and regarded as safe for most people, it’s the perfect helping hand. And whilst inositol itself isn’t brand new, recent research and growing
momentum around it mean that its potential to improve women’s health outcomes is only set to grow further.

“Myo-inositol has such promising research behind it, but until recently, it wasn’t part of the mainstream conversation – and we think that’s because people are finally talking more openly about hormonal health,” says Fox. “Now, with more awareness and education, people are discovering how incredible it can be for supporting hormone balance and overall wellness. Honestly, it’s about time.”