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Citrus pectin and modified citrus pectin (MCP) are both derived from citrus peels, but their structures, properties, and applications differ significantly. In this article, we will explore the key differences between citrus pectin and modified citrus pectin, including their molecular structures, functional properties, health benefits, and industrial applications.

Health Benefits:

Heavy Metal Detox

Modified citrus pectin is well known for its ability to bind to common heavy metals (e.g. lead, mercury, and arsenic) and help to excrete them from the body without depleting healthy essential minerals. A review of five case studies found an average 74% decrease in toxic heavy metals following the use of modified citrus pectin. Heavy metal build up in the body can have numerous negative health effects including interfering with antioxidant defence mechanisms, negatively influencing cellular processes such as cell growth, proliferation, metabolism and apoptosis, and displacing vital healthy redox metals from their binding sites.

Supports Cardiovascular Health

Modified citrus pectin can provide powerful cardiovascular health support and protect against cardiac dysfunction through its ability to inhibit Galectin-3, a protein that is implicated in various biological functions including regulating cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. Research has demonstrated that modified citrus pectin can ameliorate cardiac dysfunction and hypertrophy, decrease myocardial injury and reduce collagen deposition.

Reduces the Spread of Cancer

Modified citrus pectin has shown great potential to help manage various types of cancer. One study found that treatment with modified citrus pectin significantly inhibited the growth and spread of colon cancer in mouse spleens. Research has also found that modified citrus pectin can reduce the survival of pancreatic cancer cells and increase their susceptibility to infrared radiation. It is believed that modified citrus pectin can reduce the spread of cancer by binding to galectin-3, reducing cancer’s ability to stick to other cells and establish tumours in other parts of the body.

History:

Modified citrus pectin was developed in the late twentieth century when scientists discovered that through altering its molecular structure citrus pectin became more absorbable in the human gut. This has led to modified citrus pectin now being used in the form of health supplements to provide various therapeutic benefits.

Jady

Jady has over 20 years of experience in the plant extract industry and is a seasoned expert in natural plant active ingredients. She specializes in the research, analysis, and extraction of plant extracts, natural sweeteners, mushroom extracts, cosmetic ingredients, and other plant active ingredients. Jady possesses a deep understanding of international food safety standards such as FDA and EFSA, and can clearly explain complex biochemical concepts to formulators worldwide. Her expertise effectively helps brands bridge the gap between scientific research and commercial applications, focusing on developing natural health products. She excels at guiding brands to understand the specific applications of various ingredients in dietary supplements, functional foods, and cosmetics, enabling clients to more easily select suitable ingredients and find reliable solutions.

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