| Common name: |
Apple pectin |
| Scientific name: |
Malus sylvestris |
Overview:
Pectins
are a group of white amorphous complex polysaccharides, often refered
to as insoluble fiber. This insoluble fiber is formed when the
protopectins found in unripe fruit are converted into pectins as the
fruit ripens. Pectins are found in large amount in peaches, plums,
currants and apples. Apples contain by far the largest amount of
pectins, with the Jonagold variety containg the most.
When pectin is mixed with water, a colloidal suspension is formed.
A thick gel is formed once this solution cools. This is what makes the
fruit used in jams and jellies to set up.
Active Ingredients:
Homogalacturon, Rhamnogalacturonan I and II are the three major
chemical components of pectin. These three compounds are what give
apple pectin its health enhancing qualities.
Traditional uses:
Because of the gel that apple pectin forms, it is an excellent
demulcent. This makes it an excellent treatment to sooth sore throats
and is found in several over the counter cough drops. This demulcent
effect also makes pectin an excellent treatment for digestive tract
problems such as ulcers and colitis. Apple pectin has also been used to
treat diarrhea as the insoluble fiber gel helps to bulk up the stool,
causing it to move more slowly through the digestive tract.
Clinical uses:
Clinical studies at the University of California at Davis have
actually documented the health benefits of apple pectin. These studies
have shown that apple pectin is:
- An excellent way to lower cholesterol and other unhealthy lipids in the blood stream promoting cardiovascular health
- An
excellent way to add fiber to the diet to maintain healthy bowel
function as well as encourage the growth of friendly bacteria in the
digestive tract
- Not only reduce gallstones already present but prevent them from forming in the first place
- Soothes
the mucous membranes of the digestive tract helping to ease the pain
and heal the ulcers found in the stomach and those caused by colitis
- Proven to help maintain normal blood glucose levels for those who suffer from diabetes.
Contra-indications:
Apple pectin is generally regarded as safe by the National Institute of Health
Drug interactions
Because of its ability to help maintain normal blood sugar levels,
people who suffer from diabetes should always inform their physician
when apple pectin is added to their diet.