IP6 – Inositol Hexaphosphate

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6), also called phytic acid, in research since 1985 has inhibited the onset and progression of cancers in animals, but supportive research in humans is lacking. All research suggesting beneficial effects from taking IP-6 involve animals and not people. It is not known whether IP6 would be useful for the treatment of human disease or if so, what would be the optimal amount. IP6 is associated with dietary fiber and thus is naturally present in a wide variety of plant foods, especially wheat bran, whole grains, and legumes. The average dietary intake ranges from 1-1.5grams phytate per day.

Caution is advised when using IP6 supplementally for an extended period. Phytate in foods reduces mineral absorption, especially iron. Supplemental phytate (IP6) will further contribute to this potential problem. Additional mineral supplementation may be required.

When IP6 is recommended, the dose is 2-8grams daily, which should be taken on an empty stomach to avoid interaction with dietary proteins. Consider taking supplemental inositol with IP6 because additional unbound inositol multiplies its therapeutic activity.

 


IP6 - Inositol Hexaphosphate can help with the following

The Immune System  

Immune System Imbalance (TH2 Dominance)

IP6 – found in brown rice and corn and extracted as a commercial product – promotes NK function and thus helps balance a TH2 dominant immune system.



Metabolic  

Hemochromatosis (Iron overload)

Supplemental IP6 may slow down the amount of iron being absorbed from the digestive tract, but only specially formulated drugs or blood loss can remove iron from the body.



Key

May do some good

Glossary

Inositol

Usually considered part of the vitamin B complex. It is thought that along with choline, inositol is necessary for the formation of lecithin within the body. Involved in calcium mobilization.

IP6

Inositol Hexaphosphate.

Gram

(gm): A metric unit of weight, there being approximately 28 grams in one ounce.

Mineral

Plays a vital role in regulating many body functions. They act as catalysts in nerve response, muscle contraction and the metabolism of nutrients in foods. They regulate electrolyte balance and hormonal production, and they strengthen skeletal structures.

Iron

An essential mineral. Prevents anemia: as a constituent of hemoglobin, transports oxygen throughout the body. Virtually all of the oxygen used by cells in the life process are brought to the cells by the hemoglobin of red blood cells. Iron is a small but most vital, component of the hemoglobin in 20,000 billion red blood cells, of which 115 million are formed every minute. Heme iron (from meat) is absorbed 10 times more readily than the ferrous or ferric form.

Stomach

A hollow, muscular, J-shaped pouch located in the upper part of the abdomen to the left of the midline. The upper end (fundus) is large and dome-shaped; the area just below the fundus is called the body of the stomach. The fundus and the body are often referred to as the cardiac portion of the stomach. The lower (pyloric) portion curves downward and to the right and includes the antrum and the pylorus. The function of the stomach is to begin digestion by physically breaking down food received from the esophagus. The tissues of the stomach wall are composed of three types of muscle fibers: circular, longitudinal and oblique. These fibers create structural elasticity and contractibility, both of which are needed for digestion. The stomach mucosa contains cells which secrete hydrochloric acid and this in turn activates the other gastric enzymes pepsin and rennin. To protect itself from being destroyed by its own enzymes, the stomach’s mucous lining must constantly regenerate itself.

Protein

Compounds composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen present in the body and in foods that form complex combinations of amino acids. Protein is essential for life and is used for growth and repair. Foods that supply the body with protein include animal products, grains, legumes, and vegetables. Proteins from animal sources contain the essential amino acids. Proteins are changed to amino acids in the body.

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