What exactly is IP6?
IP6 (inositol hexaphosphate) is a component of fiber primarily found in whole grains and legumes. It appears that the cancer protective effects of high fiber diets are due to the presence of higher levels of IP6 in the fiber. However, although IP6 is found in substantial amounts in the fiber component of whole grains and beans, supplementation with purified IP6 and the correct amounts of inositol offers several advantages. Firstly, in grains and beans the IP6 exists primarily as a poorly absorbed form because it is complexed with protein and minerals like calcium, magnesium or potassium to form a salt. Therefore, in its natural state IP6 is poorly absorbed. Studies have shown that pure IP6 is significantly more bioavailable than the IP6 found in whole grains and beans. This action is important as IP6 exerts significant beneficial effects within cancer cells – turning off their ability to multiply.
