IP6 is a rather strange name for a supplement. It sounds more like software or a model of six cylinder car. IP6 may have become the common term because inositol hexaphosphate was too much of a mouthful for most people. IP6 is in fact a rice extract that is garnering attention in the scientific community world wide. Occasionally you may hear IP6 referred to as phytate. You may also hear the molecule referred to as Cal Mag IP6, sodium IP6, iron IP6, phytic acid, inositol hexakiphosphate or inositol 6 phosphate. To add a little confusion there are actually a number of different types of IP6. The molecule exists on its own [inositol hexaphosphoric acid or phytic acid] or can be bound to various minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron or sodium [in nature as Cal Mag inositol hexaphosphate.

The type that contains what is believed to be the most beneficial minerals is called Cal Mag IP6, as it is combined with six molecules of calcium and magnesium; how interesting that it occurs naturally in its most beneficial form! This is the type of IP6 used in IP6 ENHANCED.

Is IP6 a type of fiber? No, it exists in both plant and animal cells, but the confusion arises because the highest concentrations are found in fiber, especially insoluble fiber. In fact IP6 is found in many places, including the soil and in all of our own cells.

To get levels high enough to influence our health we rely on plant sources, legumes and grains predominantly. Corn happens to have the highest levels. However as a supplement, IP6 is often extracted from the bran of rice, which is removed when brown rice is polished and converted into white rice. The amount of IP6 in common food sources:

Like the B vitamins, IP6 affects energy metabolism as well. In all living cells ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is used to store the energy derived from our food. IP6 is one of our sources of phosphorus which enables ATP to be formed and thus the energy to be stored.

Inositol is defined as a B vitamin, but a RDA has not been established. Inositol is the “I” in IP6 and provides the structure for the IP6 molecule. There is debate as to whether IP6 should also be considered a vitamin. Vitamins are a group of substances that help regulate metabolism and are essential for normal cellular function, growth and development. Generally speaking the body can not manufacture or synthesize vitamins. They must be supplied in the diet or via dietary supplements. A compound is considered a vitamin if a deficiency disease results when the levels of that vitamin in the diet are inadequate. Both IP6 and inositol are essential to the normal functioning. A lack of IP6 and inositol in the diet results in overt symptoms of deficiency. IP6 and inositol are unique like vitamin D in that the body can in fact produce some. With vitamin D if one does not get enough sun exposure a deficiency can result. Is IP6 a vitamin? Perhaps, but more importantly it should be recognized as necessary for optimal health, as the body does not produce a satisfactory amount without a food source.

IP6 affects our health in several ways and we expect scientists to uncover even more benefits in the coming years, as the intricacies of this amazing molecule are revealed.