Inositol hexaphosphate, found in high-fiber foods, is a dietary supplement with antioxidant and potential cancer treatment benefits. However, it can also lead to mineral deficiencies, making it important to alternate with mineral and probiotic supplements. Consult a medical professional before use.
Inositol hexaphosphate is a chemical compound found in the shells of high-fiber foods, such as seeds, grains, and nuts. Also known as phytic acid or IP6, inositol hexaphosphate is widely distributed as a dietary supplement with cellular support and antioxidant benefits. Phytic acid is also believed to aid in the treatment of cancer, particularly of the prostate, breast, and colon. Whatever the benefits of using IP6, the chemical is a double-edged sword, as it can also lead to mineral deficiencies. This is caused by the union of phytic acid with minerals such as calcium, zinc and magnesium and the reduction of their bioavailability.
Inositol hexaphosphate is a phytonutrient extracted from high-fiber food sources, such as beans, brown rice, corn, sesame seeds, and wheat bran. The chemical serves as a source of phosphorus in the plant and as a signal transfer agent and antioxidant in human cells. IP6 is also an effective chelating or binding agent and combines easily with many trace minerals. It is this chelating characteristic that has focused attention on inositol hexaphosphate as a potential cancer treatment.
Minerals that combine with IP6 during chelation become insoluble and therefore impossible to metabolize. This action is believed to deprive cancer cells of minerals that are essential for their survival. Breast, colon, and prostate cancers have responded well to IP6 treatments in several clinical trials. Unfortunately, it also has, like most cancer treatments, undesirable side effects. It may be impossible to selectively select for cancer cells with this type of treatment, and a general mineral deficiency may arise from prolonged use.
The antioxidant properties of IP6 have also caught the attention of the health supplement market with several related studies showing encouraging results. Antioxidants are essential elements to combat free radicals in the body. An adequate intake of antioxidants promotes general good health, but has particular benefits in building healthy cardiac and circulatory systems. However, as mentioned above, users should be aware of the mineral depleting side effects of inositol hexaphosphate intake.
People suffering from osteoporosis should be especially careful about calcium depletion, as calcium is one of the minerals particularly susceptible to IP6 chelation. If IP6 use is alternated with a mineral and probiotic supplement regimen, mineral depletion can be largely negated. Inositol hexaphosphate is apparently beneficial as a supplement to combat free radicals, but more documented scientific research is needed before its benefits as a cancer treatment can be confirmed. As with all supplements, a medical professional should be consulted before using IP6.
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