Supplements

IP-6 (Inositol Hexaphosphate)

IP-6 (inositol hexaphosphate) is a component of fiber that is found primarily in whole grains and legumes. It appears that the cancer protective effects of a high fiber diet are due to the presence of higher levels of IP-6 in the fiber. However, although IP-6 is found in substantial amounts in the fiber component of whole grains and beans, supplementation with purified IP-6 and the proper amount of inositol offers several advantages.

The IP-6 existing in grains and beans is poorly absorbed because it is complexed with protein and minerals like calcium, magnesium, or potassium. Tests have shown that IP-6 is significantly more bioavailable.

IP-6 is rapidly taken up by cancer cells, in effect, turning the cancer cells off. Dr. shamsuddin, M.d., Ph.D., of the University of Maryland and author of IP6: Nature's Revolutionary Cancer-Fighter (Kensington, 1998) discovered that inositol dramatically increases the anticancer and immune enhancing effects of IP-6.

He discovered that when properly combined with inositol, IP-6 forms two molecules of IP-3 in the body. Inositol, has six carbon atoms that are capable of binding phosphate molecules. When all six carbons are occupied by six phosphate groups, it forms IP-6.

When IP-3 levels are low in the body (as in cancer cells), the cells replicate out of control. when the cancer cells are bathed in IP-3 they literally turn themselves off. The proper ratio of IP-6 and inositol ensures the formation of IP-3 within the body.

IP-6 and inositol, in proper combination, have also been shown to be an effective antioxidant and booster to the immune function. This combination boosts the activity of a type of white blood cell known as a "natural killer" or "NK" cell. These killer cells literally kill cancer cells, viruses and other infecting organisms. They protect the body against cancer and infection. Although IP-6 can increase NK cell activity, the combination exerts even greater enhancement.

Experimental studies on animals have shown that IP-6 exerts anti-cancer effects against brain tumors, breast cancer, colon carcinoma, fibroblast, leukemia, liver carcinoma, lung carcinoma, prostate carcinoma, skeletal muscle sarcoma, and skin carcinoma.

Sources: whole grains, legumes

Precautions: IP-6 is extremely safe based upon extensive animal testing and human studies. No side effects have been reported even at higher dosages.

Dosage Ranges and Duration of Administration: Dr. Shamsuddin recommends taking a daily dosage of 800-1,200 mg of IP-6 along with 20-300 mg of inositol as a general preventative measure. In patients with cancer or at high risk for cancer, he recommends a dosage of 4,800-7,200 mg of IP-6 along with 1,200-1,800 mg of inositol. He also recommends it be taken on an empty stomach.

Products should have a 4 to 1 ratio of IP-6 to inositol for maximum benefit.

IP-6 can be taken with conventional cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy.