PCOS & Nutrition

Discover myo-inositol and d-chiro benefits for PCOS

Table of contents

  1. 01. Introduction
  2. 02. What is Inositol?
  3. 03. Myo-Inositol vs D-Chiro Inositol: What’s the Difference?
  4. 04. Benefits of Inositol for PCOS
  5. 05. Inositol vs Other Supplements for PCOS
  6. 06. The OVASTART Supplement for PCOS

Introduction

If you live with PCOS, you’ve probably heard of inositol supplements. They’ve become one of the most talked-about natural options for managing symptoms — from fertility to hormonal acne. But what exactly is inositol? And how do the two main forms — myo-inositol and d-chiro inositol — affect PCOS?

In this guide, we’ll break down the science, explore the proven benefits, and help you understand whether inositol could be part of your PCOS routine.

👉 Not sure which supplement is right for you? Take our free 2-minute product quiz for personalised recommendations.

What is Inositol?

  • Once known as “Vitamin B7,” inositol is a natural compound made in the body from glucose.

  • There are nine forms, but myo-inositol (MI) and d-chiro inositol (DCI) are the most relevant for PCOS.

  • These molecules are vital messengers for insulin and hormones, and they play a key role in:

    • Blood sugar regulation

    • Ovulation and fertility

    • Mood and energy balance

Foods rich in inositol include beans, whole grains, nuts, citrus fruits, and legumes. Breast milk is also a natural source for newborns.

👉 Want to understand more about these types of PCOS and how they relate to your symptoms? Check out our article on The 4 Types of PCOS.

 

Myo-Inositol vs D-Chiro Inositol: What’s the Difference?

  • Myo-Inositol (MI): Supports healthy ovulation, egg quality, and FSH signaling. Especially important for restoring menstrual cycles and fertility.

  • D-Chiro Inositol (DCI): Helps regulate insulin and androgen (male hormone) levels.

  • PCOS Imbalance: Women with PCOS often have too much DCI in the ovaries and not enough MI, leading to poor egg quality, higher androgens, and disrupted cycles.

👉 Clinical studies suggest that a combined MI + DCI ratio is the most effective approach for PCOS management.

 

Benefits of Inositol for PCOS

1. Improves Insulin Resistance and Blood Sugar

  • Around 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance.

  • Inositol improves how cells respond to insulin, stabilising blood sugar and reducing post-meal crashes.

  • Lower insulin = fewer androgens = better cycle regularity.

2. Supports Fertility and Ovulation

  • Myo-inositol is essential for egg maturation.

  • In one study, 88% of women with PCOS regained regular cycles after three months of supplementation, and many conceived naturally.

3. Reduces Androgens, Acne, and Hirsutism

  • By lowering insulin and testosterone, inositol may reduce hormonal acne and excess hair growth.

  • Early studies show promising improvements, especially with combined MI + DCI formulas.

4. Improves Mental Wellbeing

  • Inositol influences neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

  • It may help reduce anxiety, depression, and PMS-related mood swings.

5. Supports IVF and Assisted Fertility

  • Pre-treatment with inositol improves ovarian response during stimulation, reduces the risk of hyperstimulation, and increases egg quality.

 

Inositol vs Other Supplements for PCOS

While inositol is one of the most researched PCOS supplements, it works best as part of a holistic plan including:

  • Dietary support (low GI foods, protein-rich meals, anti-inflammatory diet)

  • Micronutrients like folate (Quatrefolic®), zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D

  • Lifestyle changes (exercise, sleep, stress management)


The OVASTART Supplement for PCOS

At SOVA, we created OVASTART, a unique formula with:

  • Myo-Inositol + D-Chiro Inositol

  • Quatrefolic® (active folate)

  • Vitamin B6

  • Zinc

Designed to support hormonal balance, ovulation, skin health, and energy.
Many women also combine it with Sugar Balance for complete blood sugar support.

👉 Ready to find your match? Take our 2-minute product quiz.

Scientific references

(1)  The effects of inositol supplementation on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic diseases : a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials », dans Lipids in Health and Disease, 2018.

(2) SOPK : mieux comprendre pour mieux traiter – REVUE GENESIS

(3) The inositols and polycystic ovary syndrome - PMC (nih.gov)

(4) https://www.revuegenesis.fr/sopk-mieux-comprendre-pour-mieux-traiter/

(5) Effects of d-chiro-inositol in lean women with the polycystic ovary syndrome

(6) Inositol in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Restoring Fertility through a Pathophysiology-Based Approach - PubMed (nih.gov)

(7) https://www.larabriden.com/inositol-for-mood-sleep-and-pcos-polycystic-ovary-syndrome/

(8) Marine Croze. Study of the insulin-sensitizing effect of myo-inositol in mouse : Evaluation of the nutritional interest of a myo-inositol supplementation. Biochemistry, Molecular Biology. INSA de Lyon, 2013. English

(9) Rolland AL, Dewailly D. Intérêt du myo-inositol dans le syndrome des ovaires polykystiques. Médecine de la Reproduction, Gynécologie Endocrinologie 2015 ; 17 (3) : 186-92 doi:10.1684/mte.2015.0560.

(10)  Inositol and In Vitro Fertilization with Embryo Transfer - PMC (nih.gov)

(11)  Inositol and In Vitro Fertilization with Embryo Transfer - PMC (nih.gov)

(12)  Acné et SOPK - Ce que vous devez absolument savoir | Les Natives

(13)  Treatment of hirsutism with myo-inositol: a prospective clinical study - PubMed (nih.gov)

(14)  Efficacy of myo-inositol in the treatment of cutaneous disorders in young women with po

Amandine is a naturopath specialising in supporting women with hormonal imbalances, particularly PCOS. She offers comprehensive and personalised support to help you restore hormonal and emotional balance naturally and effectively.

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Sova compared to other supplements

Each molecule used has been the subject of studies and has shown its benefits in improving symptoms among women with PCOS.
Our formulas have been developed with the support of our naturopathic and micronutrition experts specialized in PCOS, and in accordance with European regulations.

Sova face aux autres compléments

Chaque molécule utilisée à fait l’objet d’études et a montrée ses bénéfices dans l’amélioration des symptômes chez les femmes SOPK.Nos formules ont été élaborées avec l’appui de nos experts naturopathes et micro-nutritionnistes spécialistes du SOPK et en accord avec la réglementation européenne.

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Ovastart
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The most complete hormone formula
A full clinical dose of Myo + D-Chiro (4 g), active B-vitamins, Quatrefolic® B9 and Zinc bisglycinate. In a clean, fast-dissolving powder stick that’s gentle on your stomach.
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The Balance Bundle
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Two products, one complete PCOS system
Ovastart’s clinical-dose Inositols in a convenient powder stick + Sugar Balance’s Berberine/NAC/Chromium formula for full hormonal & metabolic support. A clean, effective routine no UK supplement matches.