Wow, that refrence on IP6 is VERY interesting! It sure makes the "paleo" (no grains, all carbs from fruit and veg) diet look like a REALLY bad idea!

This diet, which I followed for 3 years until 1 year ago, was initially great and solved IBS symptoms which were often related to grain consumption - however, after about 1 year I started to get what eventually became clear were gradually increasing but changeable polyneuropathy symptoms - every medical test known, including a brain scan, was clear, and doctors said it must be migraines. The only way I could get some relief was by adding Essene rye bread and rolled flax to my diet - howvwer, despite this, 6 months ago I started to develop palpitations and increased (high for me) blood pressure (also eased only by eating the grain foods) - doctors said due to stress. Cholesterol and all tests were fine (I jog 5kms 3X/wk), but just in case, I cut out ALL salt and saturated fat, and reduced protein significantly.

Also, what I had finally noticed at some point during the last 4 years, was increased facial hair - it was so fine and blonde that I hadnt noticed it for ages. Despite being peri-menopausal, neither my sister or mother developed this, and it's only on the OUTER edges of my face (not chin, jawline or above mouth) so doesnt seem to be connected to pre-menopause specifically.

What is intresting about the iron accumulation idea is that: (1)my brother has the Hemochromatosis gene (only 1 copy) so I could also have this, (2)I was eating a LOT of (organic/wild) meat and wild salmon while fully on "paleo", (3) a naturopathic consultation last year did some tests on cellular composition etc which supposedly showed high levels of metal toxins which I couldnt explain (after eating organic for a decade and having my mercury fillings removed a decade ago), (4) I've recently commenced treatment with a VERY traditional Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist, and he says the main area he is treating is my liver (I drink red wine VERY rarely and have never had any symptoms of liver problems, though I did have glandular fever twice in the past).

I'm not sure I need Iodine because I think I was getting heaps in nori, of which I had been eating a LOT (2 sheets on my salads at least 4-5 times/wk) and thought maybe it contained mercury - couldnt find any info either way, so stopped it 6 wks ago in case it was causing the neuropathy, but have to wait at least 2 months to see if it has any effect.

So, all this indicates perhaps I should try some IP6 for awhile, although I HAVE just started changing to a mainly-raw diet which includes sprouted/soaked grains, legumes, nuts and seeds)as I felt it may help my health and it seemed crazy to cook expensive organic produce. This also means I'm not having salmon for now (I was having it at least 4x/wk) - I'm now wondering if it contained mercury too?.

Any thoughts or comments welcome!