Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to not feel so hungry all the time when you’re trying to lose weight? Well, there is a way and it’s not a new fad either, it’s something that’s natural, has no adverse side effects, and could be sitting right in your fridge: fiber.

One type of fiber you’ve probably already been eating is called pectin. Pectin is found in fruits, such as apples, strawberries, and peaches, along with vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and beans. Pectin is a carbohydrate that has no calories.

Pectin is a great source of fiber, which we all know is important for a healthy diet. In addition to helping you feel full longer, pectin can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It can even help in the prevention of colon cancer.

Pectin can help you lose and maintain your weight because it makes your stomach empty more slowly. As a result, after eating pectin, you feel full longer. This means that you will eat less, which will lead to weight loss. And if you think you’ll have to gobble down hundreds of apples or pectin drinks, think again: Research has shown that just a teaspoon can help you feel full.

Where can you get pectin?

Fortunately, you won’t have to drive miles out of your way to get your supply of pectin because it’s sold right at your local grocery store. It comes in powder form, which may be known as Sure-Jel, or liquid, known as Certo. Derived from grapefruits and apples, pectin is usually found with baking supplies in most supermarkets.

How to take pectin

You can mix the pectin with orange juice, water, or soft drinks. It is flavorless, so it shouldn’t affect the taste of the drink you mix it into. It is best to increase your intake gradually to allow your system to adjust to the added fiber. Start with one teaspoon a day, then gradually add up to a maximum of 3 teaspoons a day. You can also add pectin to broths or soups, applesauce, and even baked potatoes.