Abstract: The invention is directed to the treatment of COVID-19 patients by administering to patients either infected by SARS-CoV-2 or presymptomatic for COVID-19 but at risk of severe morbidity and mortality due to potential COVID-19 infection. Such patients are given modified pectin, preferably modified citrus pectin, in an amount that may range from 2.5 or 5 on up to 10-25 grams per day, divided into two or three doses per day. The administration may be oral, by inhalation, intrabuccal or IV. The process may be combined with the administration of supportive agents like antivirals, anti-inflammatories, immune based inhibitors, vitamins, monoclonal and polyclonal anti-viral or viral binding antibodies.

Abstract: Administration of low molecular weight (10,000-20,000 Daltons, or lower) pectins, particularly modified citrus pectins (MCP), like PectaSol-C reduces galectins-3 levels in vivo. Reduction of galectin-3 levels by MCP inhibits inflammation, inhibits fibrosis formation in organs and tissues, and inhibits cancer formation, progression, transformation and metastases. The reduction in circulating, serum and cellular galectin-3, inherently resulting from the administration of MCP, provides benefit over a spectrum of biological conditions, as evidenced by in vivo trials.

Abstract: Low molecular weight modified pectin, particularly modified citrus pectin (MCP), and/or low molecular weight modified alginate is useful in a composition for stimulating the immune response of a mammal, particularly a human. Modified pectin and/or modified alginate is administered in a composition in an amount sufficient to modulate, support, enhance or extend an immune response, particularly to an individual having an inadequate or reduced immune function. Stimulation of an immune response is evidenced by stimulation of cell-mediated immune function, humoral immune function, phagocytic function of mononuclear macrophages, and NK cell activity. The composition also may comprise well known pharmacologically acceptable agents, such as sulfured amino acids, cilantro, garlic, minerals, and herbs.

Abstract: A modified alginate and/or modified pectin composition and method for preventing and/or treating diseases and/or conditions caused by circulating agents such as poisonous heavy metals, environmental toxins, calcium and cholesterol, is provided. The composition includes a modified alginate having a molecular weight of no more than 40,000 daltons and/or a modified pectin having a molecular weight of no more than 40,000 daltons. The method involves orally or intravenously administering the modified alginate and/or modified pectin composition, alone or with excipient.

Abstract: A method for binding tumor emboli circulating in the blood of mammals is provided by oral or intravenous administration of a modified alginate, prepared from alginic acid by thermal degradation/hydrolysis or enzymatic degradation. The modified alginate has a molecular weight of no more than 40,000 daltons, and is water soluble.