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Ovasitol and weight loss: Can it help you achieve your goals?

Ovasitol and weight loss: Can it help you achieve your goals?

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Discover how Ovasitol may support weight loss and learn the science behind its benefits for women, especially those with PCOS.

Introduction 

Ovasitol has gained popularity as a natural supplement that can help manage the symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and reduce insulin resistance. But, beyond its well—known benefits for helping balance hormones and reduce insulin resistance, can it also support weight loss? 

This article explores the science behind Ovasitol, what we currently know about its benefits, and how it might be used to support sustainable weight loss.

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What is Ovasitol? 

Ovasitol is a supplement that contains two forms of inositol, myo-inositol (MI) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI) in a 40:1 ratio, which mirrors the natural balance found in the body. 

Inositol, often called vitamin B8, is not a vitamin. It’s a type of natural sugar that plays a key role in insulin signaling and cellular function. Inositol can be found naturally in certain foods including beans, grains, fruits, and nuts. It can also be made by your body from the carbohydrates you eat. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the average American diet provides around 1 gram of inositol a day. However, research suggests that supplementing with higher amounts may offer unique health benefits. 

What is the role of inositol in the body? 

While research into inositol is ongoing, it has been found to play several important roles in the body, including:

  • Involved in the development and growth of cells.
  • Increases the body's sensitivity to insulin and reduces insulin resistance
  • Increases the rate at which cells use glucose and store it. 
  • Plays a complex role in brain function with low levels linked to anxiety disorders and other psychiatric disorders.

Benefits of inositol in the body 

Inositol plays a vital role in multiple bodily systems, including the brain, liver, kidneys, cells, and gut. Overall it helps to: 

  • Lower the risk of developing metabolic syndrome
  • Treat the symptoms of PCOS by lowering testosterone levels and improving insulin sensitivity 
  • Improve insulin resistance 
  • Lower high cholesterol 
  • Reduce the risk of gestational diabetes 
  • Potentially manage the symptoms of certain mood disorders and psychiatric conditions 

How Ovasitol can support weight loss

Ovasitol is not a weight—loss drug and losing weight sustainably and effectively requires more than simply taking a supplement. Since Ovasitol helps regulate how the body uses and stores glucose, it may support weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. Here’s how Ovasitol can aid your weight loss journey:

Improving insulin sensitivity 

Insulin resistance and weight gain go hand-in-hand. 

  • Insulin resistance leads to the body having to produce more and more insulin to encourage cells to take up and use or store sugar in the blood. 
  • High insulin levels encourage cells to store glucose as fat and prevent your cells from breaking down fat for energy. 
  • Leading to a cyclical pattern where insulin resistance causes weight gain and weight gain worsens insulin resistance. 
  • Ovasitol can help break this cycle by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the amount of insulin produced.
  • This helps support weight loss alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Balancing hormones 

Raised androgen (testosterone) levels are a cornerstone of PCOS. This hormonal imbalance contributes to weight gain, excessive hair growth, irregular ovulation, and acne. A small study of 42 women with PCOS found that taking myo—inositol supplements significantly reduced testosterone levels and helped to improve symptoms of PCOS.

What the science says: 

A large 2021 meta—analysis published in ‘Obesity Science & Practice’ found that taking inositol supplements significantly reduced BMI especially in women who had PCOS and were overweight or obese. It recommended inositol to be considered as an additional treatment to help improve BMI.

Who might benefit from Ovasitol for weight loss?

While Ovasitol isn’t a magic weight—loss pill, it may be particularly beneficial for:

  • Women with PCOS. Insulin resistance is closely linked with PCOS, in fact insulin resistance is present in 75% of lean women with PCOS and 95% of overweight women with PCOS. Ovasitol reduces insulin resistance and supports weight loss in women with PCOS, particularly in overweight or obese women with PCOS. 
  • Insulin resistance. If you have insulin resistance it can make it more difficult to lose weight as your body stores excess sugar as fat. Improving insulin resistance alongside exercise and a healthy diet may support weight loss. 
  • Over 40. A large meta-analysis found that taking inositol supplements for weight loss were more effective for people over 40.

Potential side effects and considerations 

Ovasitol is generally considered safe when taken in low doses and for short periods of time, however you should always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medications. 

Some people may experience mild side-effects while taking Ovasitol including:

  • Diarrhea 
  • Nausea 
  • Mild abdominal pain
  • Fatigue 
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness

Key takeaways

  • Ovasitol improves insulin sensitivity and may support weight loss in certain individuals
  • Ovasitol can help balance hormonal imbalances common in women with PCOS and may reduce cravings additionally helping weight loss. 
  • It is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, metabolic imbalances, or a high BMI. 
  • It is not a weight loss drug and should be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise
  • Consult your healthcare provider before starting Ovasitol to discuss if it’s the right fit for you.

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