Apple Pectin

History and Uses:
Apple Pectin is a source of water soluble fiber which has a gel-forming effect when mixed with water, and is a dietary fiber, Apple Pectin is helpful in maintaining good digestive health. Pectin is defined as any of a group of white, amorphous, complex carbohydrates that occur in ripe fruits and certain vegetables. Fruits rich in Pectin are Apples, currants and plums, but researchers have found that raw Apples are the richest source of fruit Pectin, with the Jonagold variety of Apple leading other varieties. Protopectin, present in unripe fruits, is converted to Pectin as the fruit ripens. Pectin forms a colloidal solution in water and gels on cooling. When fruits are cooked with the correct amount of sugar, and acidity is optimum, and the amount of Pectin present is sufficient, jams and jellies can be made. In overripe fruits, the Pectin becomes pectic acid, which does not form jelly with sugar solutions. An indigestible, soluble fiber, Pectin is a general intestinal regulator that is used in many medicinal preparations, especially as an anti-diarrheal agent. Our ancestors believed that old proverb, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," and today, nutritional scientists continually research for evidences that verify the many health benefits bestowed by the common Apple. Apple Pectin is a soluble fiber that is said to be effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Apples work in any form (raw fruit, powder or juice) to maintain good cardiovascular health. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that Apple Pectin acts as an antioxidant against the damaging portion of cholesterol in the blood stream. Many researchers suggest that people who eat fatty foods should, if possible, accompany the food with Apple juice to reduce harmful effects. A diet of low fiber, high fat and animal protein is thought to be one of the leading causes of death in many people, and it has been established that a diet rich in Apple Pectin can protect against many diseases. Research in Japan has found that Apple Pectin can also decrease the chances of malignant colon disease. Apple Pectin helps maintain intestinal balance by cleansing the intestinal tract with its soluble and insoluble fibers. Apple Pectin tends to increase acidity in the large intestines and is advocated for those suffering from ulcers or colitis and for regulating blood pressure. Pectin is also said to be effective in causing regressions in, and prevention of, gallstones. There is also evidence that the regular use of Apple Pectin may lessen the severity of diabetes. Along these lines, it has been suggested that fiber-depleted diets actually help cause diabetes mellitus, and some studies have indicated that the regular consumption of Apple Pectin could lead to permanent reductions in insulin requirements (but only under a physician's direction. To prevent the possibility of insulin overdose, diabetics should make their physicians aware of any dietary changes).