There is no vitamin officially designated as B8. Inositol is often referred to as vitamin B8, but it's not a true vitamin.
What is Inositol?
Inositol is a compound that the body naturally produces and also obtains from food sources. While it's sometimes called vitamin B8, this isn't an accurate classification. It's not a vitamin in the same way that vitamins B1, B2, etc., are classified as essential nutrients the body cannot produce on its own and must obtain from dietary sources.
Important Functions of Inositol:
- Cell Membrane Development: Inositol plays a role in the structure and function of cell membranes.
- Insulin Action: Research suggests a potential influence on insulin function.
- Brain Chemical Messengers: It may impact certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
While further research is ongoing to fully understand its effects, it's important to remember that inositol's role in the body is distinct from that of true vitamins.