Food Sources of Pectin

Pectin is a dietary soluble fiber that can lower serum cholesterol and help regulate insulin, according to the website Dietaryfiberfood. Pectins, complex polysaccharides found in the walls and intercellular matrix of plant cells, is made up of sugar residues and is considered to be a carbohydrate. Pectins add texture when mixed into foods and act as a binding agent in some medications.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus pectin is a soluble fiber found in the outside covering or peel of citrus fruits. Oranges and lemons contain almost 30 percent pectin, according to Dr. Elson Haas, the author of "Staying Healthy With Nutrition." Haas is a medical practitioner with over 30 years experience. The pectin from citrus fruits is commonly used as a binding agent in anti-diarrheal medications. It is also used in medications for lowering cholesterol.

Pectins create feelings of fullness and aid in regulating a person's appetite as well as keeping blood sugar in check.

Apples

Apple pectin comes from the pulp and peel of the apple. Apple pectin features detoxifying qualities that are useful in cleansing and detox programs, according to Haas.
Apple pectin has been used as a thickening agent in jams, jellies and preserves for several years, according to the Food Navigator. Pectin is more easily assimilated by the body if it is added to other foods as an ingredient.

Other Sources of Pectin

Cornflakes, carrots and beans are also adequate sources of pectin. Cornflakes have 2.5 g of pectin per 100 g of edible weight, while beans have approximately .4 g per 100. Carrots fall a little higher on the scale offering .8 g per 100 g of edible weight, according to the website Dietaryfiberfood.

These numbers are excellent indicators of why these foods are beneficial in lowering elevated cholesterol levels. Because they contain soluble fiber, they aid in digestion and help the body absorb nutrients more efficiently.

Peaches and apricots are also good sources of pectins. Jams and jellies made from peaches and apricots and thickened with powdered pectin provide abundant amounts of soluble fiber to meet daily recommended requirements.