Modified Citrus Pectin Side Effects

Modified citrus pectin, or MCP, is an altered form of the compound pectin that your digestive tract can absorb more readily. Pectin is a naturally occurring carbohydrate made of many sugar molecules linked together. Most plants contain pectin, especially citrus fruits. Modified citrus pectin contains small sugar molecules that are absorbed directly into your bloodstream, whereas your body treats natural pectin as fiber and does not readily absorb it. The Food and Drug Administration categorizes citrus pectin as "generally recognized as safe," but some side effects may still occur. Consult your physician before using modified citrus pectin as a nutritional supplement.

Gastrointestinal Distress

According to the book "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport," side effects associated with modified citrus pectin are rare. The most common reported side effects involve mild gastrointestinal distress, such as upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms are usually transient and go away after the modified citrus pectin supplement has passed through your digestive tract. Taking a modified citrus pectin supplement with food and fluids may reduce the risk and severity of gastrointestinal side effects.

Allergy

Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction after taking modified citrus pectin. Individuals who are allergic to citrus fruits are more likely to experience a potentially serious allergic reaction to modified citrus pectin supplements. In a 2006 study published in the "Annals of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology," researchers found that ingestion of pectin supplements may cause a hypersensitivity reaction that may be associated with citrus allergies or nut allergies, particularly allergies to cashews and pistachios.

Asthma

The American Cancer Society reports that modified citrus pectin may have caused asthma to develop in individuals exposed to pectin powder. In a study published by the journal "Chest," researchers found that pectin inhalation can induce immediate bronchospasm, one of the symptoms of acute asthma. Inhalation of pectin powder can occur if the supplement capsule is accidentally broken, releasing its powdered contents in to the environment.

Other Considerations

Modified citrus pectin may cause fluid or electrolyte loss, which may increase your risk for dehydration. Modified citrus pectin may also increase the urinary excretion of metals, which may have adverse interactions with some medications to treat certain diseases or conditions. Consult your physician before taking modified citrus pectin to make sure it will not interact with any medications you take.