Apple Pectin Diet

The Apple Pectin Diet is not a weight management plan, but a daily nutrition regimen that includes consuming apple pectin in either its natural form -- as part of a raw or cooked apple -- or as a dietary supplement. Regular apple pectin consumption has been connected to a wide variety of health benefits for both the cardiovascular and digestive systems.

Apple Pectin

Pectin is the name of the complex carbohydrate fiber compounds found in apples, especially in the apple's skin, which contains 75 percent of an apple's fiber. Apples contain two types of pectin: pectin that contains soluble fiber and pectin that contains insoluble fiber. The insoluble portion of pectin is believed to help clear the intestinal tract, while the soluble portion swells with water in the digestive system and supports proper digestion, as well as helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Although all fruits contain pectin, apples -- in particular the Jonagold variety -- contain the highest concentrations of the compound of any fruit.

Function of Apple Pectin

Apple pectin may help prevent colon cancer by inhibiting a digestive system enzyme that has been linked to the reproduction and proliferation of cancer cells in the large intestine. The regular presence of the soluble portion part of the pectin in the digestive system is also connected to a decrease in the effects of a protein known as the C-reactive protein. C-reactive protein is associated with the tissue inflammation seen in patients suffering from certain types of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. According to the Cholesterol Aware site and a study published by the National Institutes of Health, apple pectin may decrease cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids and preventing the absorption of both cholesterol and fat.

Apple Pectin Diet Benefits

Pectin is believed to help keep cholesterol levels under control by decreasing the amount of circulating LDL, or "bad" cholesterol. In a study conducted by the University of Michigan Health System, researchers found that the phytochemicals present in apple pectin may help decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Apple pectin consumed in either natural or supplement form is also linked to binding to and eliminating toxic metals from the body, blood pressure regulation and as a treatment for an inflamed colon or a digestive system ulcer. Apple pectin may act as an antioxidant by preventing DNA damage by free radical compounds, and its regular consumption is linked to a decrease in the severity of diabetes symptoms.

Apple Pectin Supplements

Apple pectin supplements can form the basis of a simple Apple Pectin Diet and can typically contain anywhere between 500 mg to 1,400 mg of apple pectin per serving. The recommended dosage is to consume two capsules from one to three times daily with plenty of water and no less than 30 minutes prior to meals. Apple pectin dietary aids may cause some unpleasant side effects, including diarrhea, cramping, bloating and flatulence. In addition, the supplements may decrease your ability to absorb essential minerals like zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium and copper and should be avoided by all women who are either pregnant or nursing.

Considerations

If you are considering beginning an Apple Pectin Diet utilizing apple pectin dietary supplements, be aware that any pectin capsules or tablets you may purchase are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and not approved for safety, effectiveness or purity. Before making apple pectin supplements part of your daily nutrition regimen, speak to your doctor.