It may be hard to believe but the pith of an orange peel provides impressive support to the immune system while equally supporting a healthy inflammatory response. That pale, spongy layer on citrus fruits is the starting material for modified citrus pectin (MCP). Once the starting material is collected, there is a complex, proprietary process to modify it into the form of a dietary supplement. The modification process creates a small molecule that can be more easily absorbed by the body. The MCP can then enter the bloodstream where it can support health on the cellular level.
Regular citrus pectin has long been used to support ; however, the molecules are too large to enter circulation to have a systemic effect. That means citrus pectin is limited to GI support alone. Thanks to innovative technology, citrus pectin can now be modified to reduce the size and structure of the pectin molecules for optimal absorption and efficacy.
A key mechanism of action for MCP is its ability to bind to galectin-3. By helping reduce the build-up of excess galectin-3, MCP supports health on many levels. Extensive research demonstrates that Galectin-3 impacts the health of cells, joints, tissues, and organs—but MCP can help block these effects.
Because not all are equal, practitioners are encouraged to look for these key characteristics:
- Low lead, “clean” starting material because pith can be a chelator of lead
- Low molecular weight for optimal enhanced absorption
- Manufactured by a company adhering to GMP high-quality standards
- Confirmation that the product has been used in clinical studies to avoid the “borrowed science” effect
Preliminary studies demonstrate that modified citrus pectin (MCP) can support the activation of human T-helper and inducer cells, T-cytotoxic cells, B cells, and Natural Killer (NK) cells. According to a 2011 study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, which evaluated the immunostimulatory properties of MCP on human blood samples, there was a ten-fold increase in NK cellular activity and a 53.6 percent increase in the NK cellular functional ability.
The polysaccharides of the specific form of MCP used in this study connect with different receptors on the membranes of immune cells, which then activates those cells. “What I found impressive was the selectivity, and in those cases the magnitude of the effect,” said Steven J. Melnick, PhD, MD, one of the researchers from the 2011 study. “For example, polysaccharides derived from mushroom species are known for their immunomodulatory effect. However, in my experience, those effects are considerably lower than observed in the case of T cytotoxic and NK cell activation with this Modified Citrus Pectin.”
Research shows that MCP has no toxicity and is considered safe for both short-term and long-term use. In general, it’s best to take MCP on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before or after eating or taking other supplements or medications.
is well known for effectively supporting detoxification pathways, and it is now becoming a go-to supplement ingredient for supporting cellular health, cardiovascular function, immune health and more. Because of technological advancement, modified citrus pectin can help support health on many levels, including immunity.