Pectin - Essence And Benefits

Video: Pectin - Essence And Benefits

Video: Pectin - Essence And Benefits
Video: #Apple pectin - ProPectin Health Benefits and Medical Uses 2024, November
Pectin - Essence And Benefits
Pectin - Essence And Benefits
Anonim

Pectin is a structural polysaccharide, or more simply belongs to the group of soluble dietary fiber. It has the ability to form highly viscous solutions and binds bile acids in the intestines. It is most often used as a stabilizer and a source of fiber in fillings, candies, milk.

In cooking pectin is considered one of the most natural thickeners. The first one was made from apples, but there are many other fruits that contain the gelling ingredient, such as plums and pears. The properties of pectin were discovered and identified by the French chemist and pharmacist Henri Braconot.

Properties of pectin
Properties of pectin

He finds that pectin is a complex carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants that helps regulate the flow of water between cells by hardening them. When the plant has a hard and crunchy texture, the presence of pectin is the highest. Conversely, in soft and mushy plants, the level of pectin decreases.

In medicine pectin used against constipation and diarrhea. Until 2002, it was one of the main ingredients in anti-diarrhea drugs. It is also used in tablets to soothe the throat. In the cosmetics industry, pectin is one of the most prominent stabilizers. Wound healing preparations and stylized medical adhesives have also taken advantage of its properties.

Apple pectin
Apple pectin

In studies in heavily polluted areas of the Chernobyl disaster, the authors report positive results from the use of pectin as a dietary supplement. Most reported up to 50% improvement in children compared with controls.

When feeding ruminants the addition of pectin kills bacteria. Its concentration in feed can also improve digestibility as well as increase energy concentration.

Many smokers and cigar collectors use pectin to repair damaged tobacco casings. It is an excellent substitute for plant glue.

Apart from its many applications, the main advantage of pectin is that it is a natural product and is harmless.

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