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IP6 side effects tend to be mild and very rare.
IP6 is more formally called inositol hexaphosphate and is a phosphorylated form of the natural vitamin-like substance inositol. Other names for IP6 include inositol hexakisphosphate, phytic acid, and phytate.
It occurs readily in nature and is classified as a polyphosphorylated carbohydrate alcohol – a polyol. Primary food sources for IP6 include fiber-carbohydrate foods like beans, legumes, various cereal grains, wild rice, wheat germ, sesame seeds and more.
IP6 helps the body with numerous important processes and is gaining in interest for its potential anti-cancer properties. Although no clinical human studies have been undertaken so far, repeated in vitro and animal model studies show it may be able to prevent, treat, and reverse cancerous growths.
On the other hand, much human research has been conducted addressing the effectiveness and safety of using IP6 for other health conditions. Some of the studied uses for this supplement include preventing the formation of kidney stones to improving the side effects associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Brain Health
Mood
Weight Loss- Supports brain & liver health
- Involved in mood regulation & nerve signalling
- Improves insulin sensitivity for PCOS, fertility & weight loss
IP6 Side Effects
Related Topics
Many healthcare experts view IP6 as very safe for human consumption.
That’s because all DNA-containing organisms (humans, other animals, plants, algae) contain inositol in every cell.
The phosphorylated derivatives of inositol are utilized to not only form the lipid bilayers that envelop and protect all cells, they also act to regulate cellular functioning including apoptosis, migration, and more.
Any negative side effects that have been reported concerning IP6 supplementation have been very mild in nature. Temporary issues like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness have been occasionally noted.
Even at therapeutic doses of 12 grams daily (which is significantly higher than the average dosage of 1-2 g), the only ill effects reported were gastrointestinal effects, including flatulence, upset stomach, and diarrhea. If you do experience these negative side effects, it is best to reduce your dosage until the side effects abate.
Not enough research has been conducted on IP6 and inositol to determine whether it is safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is thought that high dosages of IP6 may affect oxytocin levels and could cause uterine contractions. To avoid potential unknown side effects, your obstetrician will likely recommend that you do not take IP6 if pregnant or breastfeeding.
There are a few contraindications to be aware of when considering IP6 supplementation. IP6 should not be combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, supplements, or herbs due to the potential for increased bleeding. IP6 should also not be combined with calcium, iron, or zinc, because IP-6 can chelate multivalent metal ions in the gastrointestinal tract, forming insoluble salts and decreasing mineral absorption.
As with all new supplements, it is always recommended that you speak to your doctor before taking IP6 supplements to learn more about proper dosages and any negative interactions.
Benefits of Inositol Hexaphosphate Supplementation
Inositol hexaphosphate has been clinically shown to present various health benefits for humans.
It is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidative damage. It also stimulates the immune system and is an efficient emulsifier of fats.
It may help to balance hormones in the body and improve nerve signalling to help with mood disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and panic disorder.
In research studies IP6 has been seen to serve many important purposes in the human body including, but not limited to:
- Preventing the formation of kidney stones due to its capacity to bind and help metabolize calcium oxalate
- Preventing heart disease and fatty liver disease
- Lowering LDL cholesterol and elevating HDL cholesterol
- Lowering triglyceride levels in the blood
- Accommodating healthy hair growth and the development of eye membranes
- Increasing insulin sensitivity
- Restoring regular ovulation patterns in women with PCOS
- Assisting the liver in transferring fats throughout the body
- Supporting the healthy develop and longevity of breast, prostate, and colon cells
- Helping accommodate efficient neurotransmission and calcium channeling
Clinical Evidence of IP6 Anti-Cancer Effects
Dr. Abul Kalam M. Shamsuddin, MD, PhD, pioneered the research into the anti-cancer effects of IP6. He began studying the substance in 1975 at the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine. He is a professor of pathology and has shown in clinical trials with animals that IP6 prevents the growth of cancer.
IP6 inhibits the development of cancerous cells in breast tissue. It shows a capacity to enhance the effects of anticancer prescription medications like tamoxifen and adriamycin. It is observed to be especially strong against alpha-negative, estrogen-responsive cells as well as cancer cell lines which are adriamycin resistant.
In a randomized pilot study, 14 patients with ductal breast cancer were monitored for results and side effects for 6 months. Polychemotherapy had been ordered for all of the patients, who were all at the same stages of the invasive ductal breast cancer.
6 grams of IP6 powder was administered to the treatment group and a placebo to the control group. The 6 grams was taken in 2 doses of 3 grams each on a daily basis. All other factors of treatment were equal. All patients were receiving the same types of chemotherapy treatments.
At the end of the 6-month study, the following results were noted:
- The treatment group showed no signs of cytopenia or lowered platelet counts.
- Markers for tumors and RBC counts were unchanged in both groups.
- The treatment group remained more functional throughout the 6-month period, enjoying a better quality of living while undergoing the chemotherapy treatments.
The group given IP6 also did not report a higher prevalence of side effects, and saw fewer negative effects from their chemotherapy medicines. This further validates the claims that this supplement is safe for use even at high dosages.
Research on IP6 for many different effects has been very promising so far, however more research is still needed, especially large-scale human trials. At this time IP6 is available as a dietary supplement only, and the FDA has not approved IP6 as a drug to prevent or treat any conditions.
Although IP6 side effects are rare, it is always still advisable to consult with your doctor or other health care professional about beginning inositol hexaphosphate supplementation.
Article last updated on: November 22nd, 2017 by Nootriment