Structure and properties of citrus pectin as influencing factors of biomarkers of metabolic syndrome in rats fed with a high-fat diet.

ABSTRACT: Pectin, widely used as a food and pharmaceutical ingredient, has garnered attention in recent years due to its bioactive properties. We conducted an in vivo study to evaluate the effects of citrus pectin on biomarkers of metabolic syndrome (MtS), including lipid profile, hypertension, and adipose tissue. Supplementing a high-fat diet (60% energy from fat) with 20% pectin for 4 weeks significantly reduced body weight and fat accumulation, improved insulin resistance, and decreased circulating leptin levels, demonstrating a beneficial effect on MtS. Pectin exhibited excellent viscosity, emulsifying properties, and water-holding capacity, forming a viscous gel in the gastrointestinal tract. This gel delays gastric emptying, enhances satiety, and reduces food and calorie intake, leading

SUBMITTER: Mendez-Albinana P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11925585 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature