Inositol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in fruits, grains, and nuts, is also available as a dietary supplement. People often use inositol for its potential health benefits, including supporting insulin sensitivity, hormonal balance, and mood regulation. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset, specifically diarrhea, when taking inositol. Understanding why this occurs can help manage it.
How Inositol Affects Digestion
Inositol can cause diarrhea primarily due to its osmotic effect within the digestive tract. As a sugar alcohol, inositol is not fully absorbed in the small intestine, especially at higher doses. When unabsorbed inositol reaches the large intestine, it draws water from the body into the bowel. This increased water content in the colon leads to softer, more frequent, and sometimes watery stools.
This mechanism is similar to how other sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol or xylitol, cause a laxative effect by increasing osmotic pressure and preventing water reabsorption. While inositol also influences gut motility and digestive enzyme function, the osmotic action is the primary contributor to diarrhea.
Managing Inositol-Related Diarrhea
The severity of inositol-induced diarrhea often depends on the dosage and individual sensitivity. To help prevent or reduce diarrhea, begin with a low dose of inositol and gradually increase it over time. This allows the body to adjust to the supplement.
Taking inositol with food can also help minimize digestive discomfort. Distributing the total daily dose into smaller, more frequent administrations throughout the day, rather than taking one large dose, can further reduce the likelihood of experiencing loose stools. Monitoring your body’s response and adjusting the dosage as needed is important for finding a tolerable level.
When to Consult a Doctor
While mild diarrhea is a common side effect of inositol, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If diarrhea becomes persistent, severe, or worsens over time, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, excessive thirst, or significantly decreased urination, also warrant medical attention.
Seek immediate medical attention if diarrhea is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever, or blood in the stools. These could be signs of a more serious underlying condition. Always discuss any concerns about supplement side effects with a healthcare professional before making changes to your regimen.