Apple Pectin

History:

We know that Apples have been consumed by man since 6500 B.C., and were prescribed for virtually every ailment as a "heal-all" through the ages. Remember the adage, "An apple a day....."? Our ancestors knew the "secret" of the Apple and its life giving properties. Apple is particularly rich in Pectin, the name applied to any one of a group of white, amorphous complex carbohydrates with a high molecular weight. These water-soluble fibers are found in plant tissue, most commonly ripe fruits such as citrus fruits (particularly the peels), crabapples, plums, currants and apples; and researchers have found that raw Apples are the richest fruit sources in Pectin, with the "Jonagold" leading other varieties. The characteristic structure of Pectin is a linear chain of α-(1-4)-linked D-galacturonic acid that forms the Pectin-backbone, a homogalacturonan. The fiber has a gel-forming effect when mixed with water (which makes it an effective binding agent when cleansing the intestines and colon). Protopectin, which is present in unripe fruits, is converted to Pectin as the fruit ripens. Pectin forms a colloidal solution in water and gels on cooling, and when fruits are cooked with the correct amount of sugar, and when the acidity is optimum and the amount of Pectin present is sufficient, fruit jams and jellies will result. On the other hand, when fruits are over-ripe, the Pectin becomes pectic acid, which does not form jelly with sugar solutions. Modern researchers suggest that a high-fat, low-fiber diet may be one of the leading causes of death; and, thus, people are encouraged to include Apple Pectin in any form (raw fruit or powder or juice) to help protect them from the ailments that may be caused by such a lifestyle. Rich in important vitamins, tannins and an especially high Pectin content, the Apple is especially beneficial to maintaining good health.

Apple Pectin is often referred to as a general intestinal regulator that has been used in many medicinal preparations, and its natural fiber is said to be an especially effective anti-diarrheal agent. Apple Pectin has an important function in the intestinal tract, having a scavenger effect in intestinal digestion by exerting a natural bacteriostatic action. The water-soluble fiber in Pectin has a gel-forming effect when mixed with water that helps to support the body's own resources to maintain intestinal balance by cleansing the intestinal tract. Pectin increases viscosity and volume of stool so that it is used to combat both constipation and diarrhea. It is amphoteric, which means that it works in two directions: It will help to thicken bowels that are loose or loosen up bowels that are constipated.

Further supporting its role in promoting and maintaining good intestinal and colonic health, Apple Pectin has the effect of working with the body's natural inclination to bind certain harmful compounds in the colon (fecal bacterial enzymes and bacteria in colonic carcinogens) and speeding their elimination from the body. It is considered an plant-based antioxident and believed to reduce and inhibit the damage caused to human cells by free radicals. Apple Pectin also supports the body's own efforts to remove toxic metals from the body before they are absorbed and may thereby protect the colon from serious or malignant colonic and rectal ailments.

It has been claimed that the water-soluble dietary fiber, Pectin, may significantly decrease the concentration of serum cholesterol levels. Apple Pectin appears to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol by binding with and removing fats before they are absorbed in the body, and by helping to reduce blood cholesterol levels, platelet aggregation (blood clotting) may thus be diminished and blood circulation regulated, which may potentially be helpful in reducing the risk of arteriosclerosis, heart ailments and stroke. Furthermore, it may also act as an antioxidant against the damaging portion of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

As a soluble fiber, the same action that works to support decreased serum cholesterol levels may also work to impede absorption of glucose in the bloodstream; and thus, Apple Pectin may be helpful in lowering blood glucose levels by slowing absorption of dietary sugar. Because it works by slowing absorption of food after meals, Apple Pectin may be helpful for people with high blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of dietary glucose after meals.

Apple Pectin is believed to support a healthy digestive tract. It assists the body to balance acidity in the large intestine and has been advocated for those suffering from the temporary discomforts of ulcers and colitis.

Apple may help to combat onset of Alzheimer’s disease - and fight the effects of ageing on the brain. The findings of a study at the Center for Cellular Neurobiology and Neurodegeneration Research at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, indicate that consumption of antioxidant-rich Apple (in any form, including the juice) can help reduce problems associated with memory loss.

Apple Pectin may be effective as a natural way to support regressions in and inhibiting developing gallstones.

Apple is an excellent source of the vitamin C , an antioxidant that protects the body's cells from damage. Vitamin C also helps form the connective tissue collagen, keeps your capillaries and blood vessels healthy, and supports absorption of iron and folate. Rich in vitamins and tannins, Apple is classified as the most valuable fruit in the fight against scurvy, a condition associated with vitamin C deficiency.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, one (1) time each day at a morning or midday meal and with water.

Contraindications:
Currently, there are no known warnings or contraindications with the use of Apple Pectin Herbal Supplement. When taking fiber supplements, it is always wise to take other medications and supplements at a different time to avoid binding with fiber (inhibiting absorption) and swift elimination from the body.

Capsule Information:
Our Apple Pectin supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules.(click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs."

Special Note:
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Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.