Evidence supporting the use of: Inositol
For the health condition: Memory and Brain Function

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Inositol is a naturally occurring carbocyclic sugar that is found in various foods and is also produced by the human body. Its most well-established clinical uses are for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and some mood and anxiety disorders, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder, where some evidence points to potential benefits. When it comes to memory and general brain function, the evidence is less robust but not entirely absent.

Several small studies and preclinical investigations have examined inositol's role in brain health. Inositol is involved in cellular signaling pathways, including those used by neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are important for cognitive function. However, clinical trials specifically evaluating inositol supplementation for memory enhancement or cognitive decline (such as in dementia or Alzheimer's disease) are sparse and inconclusive. A limited number of studies have looked at populations with neuropsychiatric conditions, sometimes noting mild improvements in cognitive symptoms, but these effects are not consistently replicated and sample sizes are generally small.

Overall, while there is a plausible biological rationale for inositol’s involvement in brain function, and some preliminary research hints at possible cognitive benefits, there is not enough high-quality clinical evidence to strongly support its use for memory or general brain function. Thus, the evidence rating is 2 out of 5, reflecting weak but not entirely absent scientific support.

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amino acids
anchovies
anthocyanins
ashwagandha
asparagus
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beta caryophyllene
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coffee fruit
cordyceps
creatine monohydrate
turmeric
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DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
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DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
eleuthero
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
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fisetin
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folate
fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
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guarana
guayusa
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inositol
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l-serine
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l-theanine
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lecithin
lion's mane
lutein
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maca
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