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IP-6 - Inositol Hexaphosphate, Phytate, Phytic Acid
What does it do? IP-6 is a naturally occurring component of plant fiber that may possess antioxidant, anticancer, and other beneficial properties. For example, animal studies have shown that supplementation with large amounts of IP-6 provides substantial protection against colon cancer and possibly breast cancer. In one of these studies, the effect of pure IP-6 was significant, while an equivalent amount given as a wheat-bran breakfast cereal was not. However, while some animals are able to digest and/or absorb IP-6, it is not known if this is true for humans. This greatly limits the validity of this research for human health concerns, except possibly for colon cancer prevention, which may not depend on absorption. Unfortunately, human research to date has not found an association between higher levels of dietary IP-6 in the colon and reduced indicators of colon cancer risk. Injections of IP-6 used to treat cancerous tumors in mice have been shown to cause partial regression of these tumors.
IP-6 may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar control, similar to the effect of many dietary fibers. However, no studies have been done to test this effect on people with blood sugar disorders.
Where is it found? IP-6, also known as phytate, is associated with dietary fiber and thus is naturally present in a wide variety of plant foods, especially wheat bran, whole grains, and legumes. Usual dietary intakes range from 1–1.5 grams phytate per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Phytate in foods has been associated with reduced mineral absorption. In
particular, significant interference with iron absorption has been
reported. People who are iron deficient should talk with a doctor before
supplementing with IP-6. Even for those who are not iron deficient, if
IP-6 supplements are taken for more than several months and fatigue —a
possible symptom of iron deficiency develops, a doctor should be
consulted. How much iron supplementation (if any) should be used to
counteract the iron-depleting effect of IP-6 varies from person to person,
though many people are likely to not require such supplementation.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with
IP-6.