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.