Effect of Inositol on Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes

Abstract

Inositol is a carbocyclic sugar alcohol and plays important role in various biological processes such as growth regulation, embryonic development, fertilization, regulation of lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. Gestational diabetes may develop in women at risk during pregnancy when significant changes in body composition occur. Gestational diabetes is associated with an increased risk of maternal and fetal morbidity if it is not monitored regularly. Drug treatments for gestational diabetes are not as effective as expected. Myoinositol may increase insulin sensitivity by promoting the availability of phosphatidylinositol, which acts as a second messenger of insulin. Inositol is also a compound that has been associated with positive effects in polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility treatment, and conditions such as preeclampsia. Inositol is a very important vitamin like substance not only for maternal health but also for newborn health. There are data suggesting that inositol has beneficial effects on preventing folate-resistant neural tube defects and regulating infant brain development and body adiposity. In this review, possible mechanisms mediating the mentioned beneficial effects of inositol will be examined.