The 'Jelly' Fiber That Reboots Your Gut-Liver Axis
A groundbreaking study suggests pectin, a soluble fiber in apples and citrus, may reverse fatty liver disease by healing the gut and calming inflammation.
By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Health Nutrition
Key points
- The gut and liver are connected by the "gut-liver axis"; healing a "leaky" gut may be the key to resolving fatty liver disease.
- Pectin, a soluble fiber in citrus peels and green apples, acts as a prebiotic, feeding good gut bacteria.
- Beneficial gut bacteria ferment pectin into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which heals the gut lining and reduces inflammation.
- Low-methoxyl (LM) pectin, found in citrus pith, forms a gel in the gut that helps control blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and increase feelings of fullness.
- You can get therapeutic pectin from whole foods by blending whole lemons (peel and all) or making a simple, unsweetened apple-chia "jam".
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Sources and methodology
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