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Modified citrus pectin is a plant-based dietary supplement with very preliminary evidence of anticancer and antimetastatic effects.

Modified citrus pectin at a glance

Modified citrus pectin is an altered form of natural pectin, a soluble plant fiber. The modification makes the pectin more absorbable.1Modified citrus pectin supplement. National Cancer Institute. Viewed April 6, 2023. MCP is available as a dietary supplement.

Weak clinical evidencestudies with no controls in this case and considerable preclinical evidencetesting a drug, a procedure, or another medical treatment in isolated cells or in animals; preclinical evidence is considered only an initial indication of possible effects in people show MCP has anticancer effects including inhibiting cancer growth and metastasis. MCP is anti-inflammatory and modulates or stimulates immune system activity. One study found fewer side effects and better quality of life among people treated with MCP.

CancerChoices ratings for modified citrus pectin

We rate modified citrus pectin on seven attributes, with 0 the lowest rating and 5 the highest. We rate the strength of the evidence supporting the use of MCP for a medical benefit, such as improving treatment outcomes or managing side effects.

See how we evaluate and rate complementary therapies ›

1

Improving treatment outcomes

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  • Weak evidenceone or more case studies, supported by animal evidence OR small treatment effects of limited clinical significance OR studies with no controls OR weak trends of effects (this is the CancerChoices definition; other researchers and studies may define this differently) (preclinical and poorly designed clinical evidence) of anticancer activity across many types of cancer, mostly solid tumors
  • Weak evidence of better disease markers (PSA) after localized treatment for biochemically relapsed prostate cancer among people with biochemical PSA failure treated with MCP

See How can modified citrus pectin help you? What the research says ›

1

Optimizing your body terrain

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  • Weak (preclinical only) evidenceone or more case studies, supported by animal evidence OR small treatment effects of limited clinical significance OR studies with no controls OR weak trends of effects (this is the CancerChoices definition; other researchers and studies may define this differently) of anti-inflammatory and immune function effects

See How can modified citrus pectin help you? What the research says ›

1

Managing side effects and promoting wellness

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  • Weak evidenceone or more case studies, supported by animal evidence OR small treatment effects of limited clinical significance OR studies with no controls OR weak trends of effects (this is the CancerChoices definition; other researchers and studies may define this differently) of fewer breathing difficulties; less appetite loss, fatigue, pain, or insomnia; and better quality of life and function among people with various solid tumors treated with MCP

See How can modified citrus pectin help you? What the research says ›

0

Reducing cancer risk

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We could not find any published evidence of MCP’s effects on reducing cancer risk.

3

Use by integrative oncology experts

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  • Not mentioned in integrative cancer clinical practice guidelines
  • Used in several (at least 4) of our program sources

See How do experts use modified citrus pectin? ›

4

Safety

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  • Generally safe, although some side effects are possible with some medications
  • People with allergies to citrus fruits should not use MCP

See Safety and precautions ›

4

Affordability and access

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  • Widely available without restriction
  • Somewhat expensive (between $500 US and $2000 US/year

See Affordability and access ›

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Author

Nancy Hepp, MS

past Lead Researcher
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Ms. Hepp is a researcher and communicator who has been writing and editing educational content on varied health topics for more than 20 years. She serves as lead researcher and writer for CancerChoices and also served as the first program manager. Her graduate work in research and cognitive psychology, her master’s degree in instructional design, and her certificate in web design have all guided her in writing and presenting information for a wide variety of audiences and uses. Nancy’s service as faculty development coordinator in the Department of Family Medicine at Wright State University also provided experience in medical research, plus insights into medical education and medical care from the professional’s perspective.

Nancy Hepp, MS past Lead Researcher

Reviewer

Andrew Jackson, ND

Research Associate
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Andrew Jackson, ND, serves as a CancerChoices research associate. As a naturopathic physician practicing in Kirkland, Washington, he teaches critical evaluation of the medical literture at Bastyr University in Kenmore, Washington. His great appreciation of scientific inquiry and the scientific process has led him to view research with a critical eye.

Andrew Jackson, ND Research Associate

Last update: December 18, 2023

Last full literature review: April 2023

CancerChoices provides information about integrativein cancer care, a patient-centered approach combining the best of conventional care, self care, and evidence-informed complementary care in an integrated plan cancer care. We review complementaryin cancer care, complementary care involves the use of therapies intended to enhance or add to standard conventional treatments; examples include supplements, mind-body approaches such as yoga or psychosocialtherapy, and acupuncture therapies and self carelifestyle actions and behaviors that may impact cancer outcomes; examples include eating health-promoting foods, limiting alcohol, increasing physical activity, and managing stress practices to help patients and professionals explore and integrate the best combination of conventionalthe cancer care offered by conventionally trained physicians and most hospitals; examples are chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy and complementary therapies and practices for each person.

Our staff have no financial conflicts of interest to declare. We receive no funds from any manufacturers or retailers gaining financial profit by promoting or discouraging therapies mentioned on this site.

Learn more

Natural Products, Herbs, Nutrients, and Supplements: Introduction

Lifestyle Practices

Moving More

Integrative Cancer Care

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