Dr. James J. Cerda of the University of Florida Medical College,
Gainesville, has shown the high importance of pectin in grapefruit for reducing
cholesterol and plaque accumulation in the aorta blood vessel of miniature swine
(below). The microswine were fed a high-fat diet (6 to 12 fold of normal
fat intake) for 360 days. Then, half the swine were fed a diet with 3%
pectin substituted for cellulose (fiber); the other half continued the high fat
diet. After 9 months, the swine were killed and examined Figure A.
Vessel is almost cleared on the pectin-added diet. Pigs are more
like humans that other farm livestock. A grapefruit a day could be a good
idea for people over 50 years. Or, 'ProFibe' is a powdered pectin on the
market. Figure B. Crosscut of aorta near heart showing continued high-fat diet vessel
clogged with plaque accumulation. This pig is about ready to die!
Dr. Cerda
