As technology has been developing in the field of canine nutrition, pet owners and veterinarians are turning their attention to natural compounds with multifaceted health benefits. Among such compounds is Myo-Inositol, also referred to as Vitamin B8. Technically not a vitamin, Myo-Inositol is a vital nutrient which is held responsible for facilitating cells, mood, metabolism, and neurological function in human beings and animals alike.
In veterinary patients, Myo-Inositol has been marketed as assisting in behavior, brain function, metabolism, skin well-being, and more. But what does it do-and is it safe?
This blog delves into the science of Myo-Inositol and its use in veterinary health.
What Is Myo-Inositol (Vitamin B8)?
Myo-Inositol is a vitamin B complex group natural sugar alcohol but not a vitamin because it can be produced by the body from glucose. It is involved in phosphatidylinositol synthesis, which is a component of the cell membrane, and a second messenger in numerous mood, hormonal regulation, and metabolic-function-altering signal systems.
In brief, Myo-Inositol helps cells to "talk" to each other and process information correctly-a critical function for the nervous system, metabolism, and hormone balance.
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Benefits of Myo Inositol (Vitamin B8) for dogs
1. Cognition and Neurological Health
Myo-Inositol supports the brain by supporting neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine in being normal. In dogs, especially older dogs, it is critical in maintaining cognitive function and mood stability.
Possible benefits:
- Improved mood and reduced anxiety
- Supporting cognitive aging
- Enhanced memory and concentration in older dogs
- Reduction of compulsive behaviors, i.e., restlessness or over-licking
Some of the calming supplements for dogs already include Myo-Inositol because it impacts serotonin regulation, which can be of immense help to keep characteristics triggered by stress under check.
2. Metabolism and Regulating Blood Sugar
Myo-Inositol has been discovered to have a role in the improvement of insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in animals and humans. While the majority of cases of diabetes in dogs are managed with insulin therapy and diet, the administration of Myo-Inositol as an adjuvant therapy is helpful in the following:
- Aiding insulin signaling
- Decreasing spikes of blood sugar
- Normal pancreatic function
- Weight gain and metabolic syndrome management
This gives it the possibility of being an effective contribution to prediabetes or obesity-associated metabolic impaired dogs' dietary management.
3. Healthy Coat and Skin
One of the other significant benefits of Myo-Inositol is that it is involved in cell membrane stability and fatty acid metabolism, essential for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Inositol also features in skin and coat supplements because it has the ability to:
- Reduce dry or scaly skin
- Help support healthy skin barrier function
- Reduce inflammation or irritation of the skin
- Improve coat luster and density
Seasonal-shedding or chronic skin disease bitches can be benefited by using Myo-Inositol supplements as part of an overall dermatologic support program.
4. Liver Detoxification and Support
Liver metabolism is necessary for body detoxification and metabolism of nutrients. Myo-Inositol assists in fat transportation out of the liver and avoiding fat accumulation, and may be beneficial to prevent hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).
Myo-Inositol supplementation can:
- Support liver detoxification
- Assist enzyme function
- Avoid fat accumulation within the liver
- Easier healing from toxin exposure or drug side effects
This benefit is particularly valuable in sick dogs recovering from illness or those on chronic medications that affect liver health.
5. Reproductive health and hormone balance
Myo-Inositol is also involved in the regulation of hormones and has been shown to support reproductive well-being in other animals, specifically ovarian function. Even though minimal data are available based on studies performed in the dog, it may be beneficial in maintaining hormonal balance in the irregular cycled female dog or the sperm-compromised male dog.
Although not generally utilized for this purpose in the canine population as yet, it would be utilized in fertility-boosting supplements in the future.
6. Potential Anti-Anxiety and Mood-Stabilizing Effects
Given that Myo-Inositol influences the brain's serotonin and dopamine pathways, it may be an all-natural replacement or supplement to prescribed anti-anxiety drugs. Human and rodent studies show that it improves manifestations of:
- General anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive tendencies
In dog subjects, anecdotal reports indicate improvement of puppies with separation anxiety, travel anxiety, or hyperactivity-though additional research is needed to confirm these results.
Is Myo-Inositol Safe to Give to Dogs?
Myo-Inositol is non-toxic and safe to give to dogs when given in the right dosage. It occurs naturally in whole grains, citrus fruits, and organ meats.
No significant side effects have been noted in dogs, though occasionally the high doses are followed by a bit of mild gastrointestinal distress. As with everything, always best to talk with a veterinarian prior to introducing any new supplement into your pet's regimen, particularly if your dog is on medication or has an existing health issue.
How Is It Given?
Myo-Inositol comes in:
- Powdered supplements
- Soft chews
- Multivitamin blends
- Calming aids
Dosage depends upon the dog's weight, age, and health. Dosage is generally 100–500 mg/10 kg body weight but may vary with preparations. Refer always to the label or instructions from the vet.
Can Puppies Take Myo-Inositol?
Very little literature exists regarding the administration of Myo-Inositol in puppies. While generally safe, it is not as suitable for puppies unless indicated by a vet for some reason such as skin issues or behavioral support.
Conclusion
Myo-Inositol (Vitamin B8) is a highly potent natural vitamin with a broad range of potential health advantages for your dog's brain, skin, metabolism, liver, and mental well-being. As yet relatively new in veterinary medicine, data from human and animal medicine indicate its use in canine supplements.
No matter if your pet is aging, under stress, diabetic, or simply in need of a shot in their skin or liver function, Myo-Inositol can be the calming, dynamic addition to their health care program that they require. As always, consult with your veterinarian first to ensure it is suitable for your pet's individual requirements.
References
Holub BJ. Metabolism and function of myo-inositol and inositol phospholipids. Annual Review of Nutrition. 1986;6:563-597.
Croze ML, Soulage CO. Potential role and therapeutic interests of myo-inositol in metabolic diseases. Biochimie. 2013;95(10):1811–1827.
Levine J. Controlled trials of inositol in psychiatry. European Neuropsychopharmacology. 1997;7(2):147–155.
Palatnik A, Frolov K, Fux M, Benjamin J. Double-blind, controlled, crossover trial of inositol vs. fluvoxamine for the treatment of panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 2001;158(7):1219–1221.
Levin J, Miller RA. A guide to nutraceuticals and dietary supplements in dermatology. Skin Therapy Letter. 2011;16(5):1–4.
Di Paolo G, De Camilli P. Phosphoinositides in cell regulation and membrane dynamics. Nature. 2006;443(7112):651–657.
