Chitosan
Uses
Chitosan is a polysaccharide found in the shells of crustaceans.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
|---|---|
3 Stars High Cholesterol 1 to 3 grams daily | Chitosan is a fiber-like polysaccharide that has been shown to improve cholesterol levels in a number of clinical trials. The fiber-like polysaccharide is found in the exoskeletons of insects, crabs, and shrimp, as well as the cell walls of fungi and yeast. Chitosan has properties similar to viscous fibers and is believed to reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol and inhibit cholesterol synthesis. In one placebo-controlled trial, 116 subjects with obesity taking 3.2 grams of chitosan daily for 12 weeks resulted in a 4.7% drop in LDL-cholesterol levels relative to placebo; the effect could not be fully explained by shifts in cholesterol absorption and metabolism, suggesting an unknown mechanism may contribute to its benefits. Furthermore, chitosan was found to be effective for lowering total and LDL-cholesterol levels in a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials. Another meta-analysis included data from 14 randomized controlled trials in subjects with overweight and obesity and found treatment with chitosan, at doses of 1–3 grams per day for an average of 17 weeks, lowered total and LDL-cholesterol levels, increased HDL-cholesterol levels, and reduced triglyceride levels. |
3 Stars Obesity 1 to 3 grams per day | Chitosan is type of fiber that has been shown to have a small positive impact on weight loss. Chitosan is a fiber extracted from the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp and crab or the cell walls of fungi. It is sometimes used in the food industry as a thickener and emulsifier. In a placebo-controlled trial, 96 subjects with overweight and obesity took 2.5 grams of chitosan per day or placebo for 90 days. Despite having similar calorie intake, those in the chitosan group lost an average of 3.1 kg (almost 7 pounds) while those in the placebo group had no significant change in body weight. In addition, the chitosan group had decreased body fat, abdominal fat, and waist circumference, had reductions in high HgA1c (a marker of glucose regulation), and reported improved quality of life. Two meta-analyses, one that included data from 14 randomized controlled trials with a combined total of 1,101 participants and another that included data from 15 trials with 1,130 participants, showed chitosan mildly reduces body weight and body fat in individuals with overweight or obesity. Findings from another trial suggest taking 2 grams per day of vitamin C along with 3 grams per day of chitosan may induce greater weight loss than chitosan alone. Chitosan has been shown to reduce fat absorption in laboratory animals, but controlled human trials have found chitosan has little to no impact on fat absorption. Although more research is needed to understand how chitosan induces weight loss, one possibility is that, as a prebiotic fiber, it may alter the gut microbiome composition in ways that promote healthy metabolism. |
How to Use It
Most human research has used 3–6 grams per day with meals.
Where to Find It
Chitosan is extracted from the shells of crustaceans, such as shrimp and crab.
Possible Deficiencies
Chitosan is not an essential nutrient, so deficiencies do not occur.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
While no long-term studies of the effects of chitosan on human health have been done, animal studies suggest that this compound could inhibit the absorption of minerals and fat-soluble vitamins.
Interactions with Medicines
Side Effects
Adverse effects on the growth of children and on the outcome of pregnancy are possible.1 In addition, although chitosan-included alterations in intestinal flora are believed to be beneficial, the possibility that these changes may have negative long-term consequences has not been ruled out. People with intestinal malabsorption syndromes should not use chitosan.
Last Review: 05-12-2015
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.
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