Apple pectin is a soluble fiber that can be found in apple pulp and apple peels. It might sound like the kind of thing you'd need to eat an ungodly number of apples to get, but one research suggests that just 1 gram per day is enough for significant health benefits.
The greatest benefit of pectin may come from improved blood sugar and cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. Read on to learn more about five promising benefits of apple pectin!
Better Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
People with type 2 diabetes or at risk of developing it often have high LDL cholesterol levels (the bad kind). In addition to exercise and diet, apple pectin helps reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels.
Studies show that apple pectin can help lower LDL and overall cholesterol by 5-16% without impacting HDL cholesterol.
Another study found that people with type 2 diabetes who took the apple pectin supplement had a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in inflammation markers.
In addition to reducing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity (crucial for those with diabetes), apple pectin may also reduce chronic inflammation associated with diabetes and obesity.
Heart Disease Prevention
Heart disease is most often caused by atherosclerosis or plaque buildup on artery walls. Apple pectin contains an antibacterial agent called tannins, which can improve cholesterol levels by preventing plaque buildup in your arteries
And given that apple pectin reduces LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, it can minimize the risk of developing this life-threatening condition.
May Fight Cancer
Preliminary studies suggest that apple pectin may help fight cancer by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in various cell types. There is early evidence that it could be useful against leukemia and colorectal cancer cells.
Studies suggest that apple pectin may be effective in combatting prostate and colon cancer cells.
More research needs to be done before definitively saying how effective apple pectin is at combating cancer, but initial results are very promising!
Promotes Gut and Digestive Health
Apple pectin may promote healthy digestive bacteria, which may positively impact digestion and reduce bowel irregularity. As a fiber that easily absorbs water, it can help normalize stools and alleviate constipation and diarrhea.
Soluble fiber like apple pectin helps promote healthy intestinal flora by encouraging an environment where good bacteria can flourish. These essential bacteria play a key role in promoting healthy digestion and regularity while also protecting against chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
May Aid Weight Loss
One potential benefit of apple pectin is that it may delay stomach emptying, leading to weight loss. The slower your digestive system works, the less time you spend feeling hungry and craving food in general - this means more willpower for self-control!
In sum, apple pectin is an abundant source of soluble fiber that can contribute to better blood sugar and cholesterol levels, improved digestive health, protection against heart disease and diabetes, as well as potential anti-cancer properties.
Moreover, apple pectin is easy to add to your diet. While among apples, the highest amount of apple pectin is found in Granny Smiths, you’d have to go through a ton of pulp to receive the recommended daily dose of apple pectin. Instead, consider one apple pectin supplement a day to keep cancer, constipation, and cholesterol away!