Also indexed as: Inositol Hexaphosphate, Phytate, Phytic
Acid
IP-6 is a naturally occurring component of plant fiber.
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.
IP-6 has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
While there is no dietary requirement for IP-6, people consuming diets low in dietary fiber and nuts and seeds have the lowest intake.
How much is usually taken?
Virtually all research suggesting beneficial effects from taking IP-6 involve animals and
not people. It is not known whether IP-6 would be useful for humans or if so, what would be
the optimal amount.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Phytate in foods has been associated with reduced mineral absorption.1 In
particular, significant interference with iron
absorption has been reported.2 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.
References:1. Morris ER. Phytate and dietary mineral bioavailability. In Phytic
Acid Chemistry and Applications, Graf E (ed). Minneapolis: Pilatus Press, 1986,
57–76 [review].
2. Sandberg A-S, Brune M, Carlsson N-G, et al. Inositol phosphates with
different numbers of phosphate groups influence iron absorption in humans. Am J Clin
Nutr 1999;70:240–6.