What Is Chitosan? (+10 Best Chitosan Supplements)

Chitosan supplements are a type of dietary fiber that is most commonly extracted from the hard outer shell of sea creatures such as shrimp, crabs, and other crustaceans. 

Chitosan supplements, derived from chitin, a natural polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans, have become increasingly popular as a dietary supplement.

Chitosan supplements are believed to have numerous beneficial effects on the human body and are frequently used to support weight loss, promote heart health, and reduce cholesterol levels.

Chitosan supplements are often marketed as a “miracle” weight loss supplement and have become increasingly popular with health-minded consumers.

However, research on chitosan supplements is still relatively limited, and further research is needed to understand its effects on the human body fully.

It is essential to be aware of both the potential benefits and risks associated with taking chitosan supplements before deciding to supplement

According to the studies, chitosan has the unique ability to bind with fats in the stomach, thus preventing their absorption in the body.

Scientists believe that this feature is associated with the strong magnetic charge of the substance that allows it to attract and binds with negatively charged fat.

The most common use of chitosan is associated with healthy weight loss and cholesterol balance.

This blog post aims to discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with taking chitosan supplements and provide information on appropriate dosages and potential side effects. 

Let's review the top 10 best selling Chitosan supplements.

What Is NOW Foods Chitosan with Chromium

Chitosan supplements are a natural supplement and unique source of fibers.

It contains no calories and has the unique ability to bind to fats and cholesterol, thereby to "wrap" them and to prevent their absorption by the body. This effect can be explained by the chitosan’s positive ionic charge.

How Chitosan Is Being Absorbed

Now Foods Chitosan 500 mg is a dietary supplement that is derived from the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. 

It can bind to seven times more fat than its own weight. Once the fat is connected to chitosan, it is removed from the body through the urinary system.

The chromium picolinate that is added to the product stops the accumulation of subcutaneous fat.

What Are the Main Benefits of This Product

  • Fat blocker;
  • Prevents the accumulation of subcutaneous fat;
  • Weight management;
  • Plus chromium;
  • Super fat absorbing action;
  • Supports healthy cholesterol levels.

How to Take This Product

As a dietary supplement, take 3 capsules with each meal. Refrain from taking Chitosan 4 hours before or after the ingestion of fat soluble vitamins - A, D, E, K or any medications.

Consider taking this product in combination with CLA.

MicroChitosan

by Nutricology

Nutricology MicroChitosan, Vegicaps, 60-Count

What Is Nutricology MicroChitosan

Chitosan supplements are a type of dietary fiber that is most commonly extracted from the hard outer shell of sea creatures such as shrimp, crabs, and other crustaceans. 

According to the studies, chitosan has the unique ability to bind with fats in the stomach, thus preventing their absorption in the body.

Scientists believe that this feature is associated with the strong magnetic charge of the substance that allows it to attract and binds with negatively charged fat. The most common use of chitosan is associated with healthy weight loss and cholesterol balance.

Research Show

  • Chitosan can reduce the absorption of cholesterol from food that goes into the body.
  • Chitosan demonstrates greater efficiency for reducing cholesterol than natural resin.
  • Scientists agree that the potential of chitosan for weight reduction is plausible, but there are no studies confirming this.
  • Chitosan maintains healthy circulation.
  • For topical application, it can help the healing and recovery after skin transplantation.
  • There are studies performed with the use of chitosan in several medical wound bandages.

What Are the Main Benefits of Chitosan

Chitosan is an all-natural source of dietary fiber. There are published over 350 scientific studies that clearly demonstrate the beneficial effect of chitosan on health. Among the most important health problems that influence the positive effect of its intake are obesity and high cholesterol. 

The basic principle of action of chitosan is to absorb the fats and that leads to a reduction of the weight and cholesterol levels. Chitosan, called by some "fat magnet," is one of the most popular and most effective products for weight control, along with hydroxycitric acid. 

Chitosan is a glycoprotein fiber extracted from the shell of sea creatures. Chitosan undergoes a process called deacetylation, wherein the acetyl group is removed. This process increases the activity by improving the solubility.

Chitosan is a phenomenal fat-burner – it has the ability to collect and "weld" the fats in the stomach before they are absorbed by the digestive system and enter the bloodstream. 

Or if we have to explain its mechanism of action even easier, we can compare it with a magnet that attracts the excess fatty acids before they are absorbed in a later moment and it helps the body to dispose of them.

Calorie Reducing Formula

A natural product and ally against excess weight.

How to Take This Product

Take 1 capsule three times daily or 2 capsules two times daily on an empty stomach. 

Refrain from taking Chitosan four hours before or after the ingestion of fat-soluble vitamins (i.e., A, D, E, K) or any medications. Consider taking this product in combination with CLA.

Chitosan

by Natural Balance

Natural Balance Super Chitosan 3000 | 120 VegCaps

What Is Natural Balance Chitosan

Many studies show that eating a diet that is rich in fiber will reduce the time it takes for food to go through the entire digestive system. 

This means that less fat and cholesterol are made available in the system. One fat-binding powder is chitosan supplements. It is not digestible so it has no caloric value.

Taking chitosan before meals and it can be an excellent addition to your overall weight management program. This is a fiber that comes from shellfish. 

Take it before consuming meals that are high in fat. It also works with other diet formulas from Natural Balance.

How Chitosan Is Being Absorbed

Natural Balance Chitosan is a dietary supplement that is derived from the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. 

It can bind to seven times more fat than its own weight. Once the fat is connected to chitosan, it is removed from the body through the urinary system.

The chromium picolinate that is added to the product stops the accumulation of subcutaneous fat.

What Are the Main Benefits of This Product

  • Fat blocker;
  • Prevents the accumulation of subcutaneous fat;
  • Weight management;
  • 1 000 mg per serving;
  • Maximum fat-binding power of chitosan fiber extract;
  • Super fat absorbing action;
  • Supports healthy cholesterol levels.

How to Take This Product

Take four capsules before lunch and four capsules before dinner. As with any form of fiber, drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Consider taking this product in combination with CLA.

Top 4 to 10 Chitosan Supplements

Product

Name

Buy on iHerb

Buy on Amazon

KAL Alpha Lipoic Acid SR Tablets, 600 mg, 60 Count


#4

KAL Chitosan
Natural Balance Chitosan Capsules, 120 Count

#5

Natural Balance Chitosan
Absolute Nutrition FBlock Xtra Fat Absorber, Diet Formula, 90 Capsules

#6

FBlock, Fat Absorber
Bulksupplements Chitosan Powder (250 Grams)

#7

Bulksupplements Chitosan Powder
Cell
Best Naturals -- Chitosan -- 500 mg -- 120 Tablets

#8

Best Naturals Chitosan
Cell
Nova Nutritions Chitosan 500 mg Tablet - Promotes Healthy Weight Management & Healthy Cholesterol Levels, 120 Count

#9

Nova Nutritions Chitosan
Cell
Lifetime Chitosan 1000 Mg Nutritional Supplements, 90 Count

#10

Lifetime Chitosan
Cell

What is Chitosan?

Chitosan is a naturally occurring dietary supplement derived from the shells of crustaceans like shrimp, crab, and lobster. It is a polysaccharide composed of glucosamine and N-acetyl glucosamine, and it is known for its ability to absorb fat and cholesterol from the digestive tract.

It has been used in Asia for various health benefits, such as reducing cholesterol and weight loss. Chitosan has also been studied for its potential use in treating high blood pressure, diabetes, and other health issues.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Chitosan Supplements?

Chitosan supplements offer a variety of benefits for those looking to improve their overall health. First and foremost, chitosan may help to reduce cholesterol levels.

Studies suggest that chitosan may bind to dietary fats in the body and prevent them from being absorbed, which can help reduce cholesterol levels. In addition, chitosan may also improve digestive health.

It can aid in digestion by helping to break down fats in the stomach, which can improve overall digestive function. Finally, chitosan can act as a prebiotic, helping to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. All of these benefits can help promote better overall health.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Taking Chitosan Supplements?

Chitosan supplements have the potential to cause some side effects, depending on the individual. Commonly reported side effects to include indigestion, nausea, constipation, and flatulence.

Taking chitosan with meals may reduce the occurrence of these side effects. If you are taking other medications, especially for cholesterol, consult your doctor before using chitosan supplements.

Who Should and Shouldn't use Chitosan Supplements?

Chitosan supplements are generally considered safe for most healthy individuals, but there are a few important exceptions.

People who take blood thinners, such as warfarin or heparin, should avoid chitosan supplements as they could interact with these medications and increase the risk of bleeding.

Additionally, pregnant or nursing women should not take chitosan supplements as there is not enough research to support their safe use.

People with shellfish allergies should also avoid chitosan supplements, as they are derived from shellfish. Lastly, anyone with a medical condition should speak with their doctor before taking chitosan supplements.

How to Use Chitosan Supplements?

Chitosan supplements are a form of dietary fiber derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans and can be taken as a supplement to help with weight loss, constipation, and cholesterol.

Taking chitosan in the right way can help you achieve the desired results. Here are five tips for using Chitosan supplements:

  1. Follow the instructions on the supplement label for the correct dosage.
  2. Make sure to take the supplement with a large glass of water to help it move through your digestive system.
  3. Try to take the supplement before meals to maximize its effectiveness.
  4. Consider taking Chitosan with other dietary fiber supplements for increased benefits.
  5. Speak with your doctor before taking Chitosan supplements to ensure they are safe.

Types of Chitosan Supplements

Chitosan supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids. Here are three of the most popular types of chitosan supplements: 

1. Chitosan Capsules

Chitosan capsules are one of the most popular forms of chitosan supplements. These capsules are easy to swallow and take with or without food. 

2. Chitosan Tablets

Chitosan tablets are another popular form of chitosan supplement. They are taken orally and, like capsules, can be taken with or without food. 

3. Chitosan Powders

Chitosan powders are an easy way to get your daily dose of chitosan. They can be mixed with water or other liquids to make a drink that can be taken once or twice a day.

Recommended Doses when Taking Chitosan Supplements

Recommended doses of Chitosan supplements vary depending on the age and weight of the individual taking them. Generally, the recommended dose of Chitosan for adults is 1,000-3,000 mg per day, taken with food.

For children, the recommended dose is 500-750 mg per day. It is important to note that Chitosan should not be taken with dairy products, as this could reduce its effectiveness.

Additionally, it is essential to remember that Chitosan can interact with certain medications, so it is best to consult a healthcare professional before starting a Chitosan supplement.

Chitosan’s Interactions with Other Supplements or Medications

When taking chitosan supplements, it’s essential to check with your doctor before taking them to ensure there are no interactions with any other medications or supplements you’re taking.

Chitosan can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and can reduce the effectiveness of various drugs, such as birth control pills, chemotherapy drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Additionally, chitosan can interact with other supplements, such as dietary fiber, garcinia cambogia, and psyllium husk, making them less effective.

Therefore, if you’re taking any other medications or supplements, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking chitosan supplements.

In conclusion, chitosan supplements offer a range of potential health benefits, from weight loss to improved cholesterol levels. 

While chitosan has been extensively studied and is generally considered safe, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen.

Chitosan supplements may interact with certain medications and are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

With the correct dose and proper guidance, chitosan supplements can be a powerful tool to help you meet your health goals.

Last Updated on 20.01.2023 by Militsa Chervenkova, Student of Neurotyping

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