Chitosan Fat Blocker

Chitosan Benefits For Weight Loss

Chitosan is a dietary fibre that’s derived from chitin, a unique polysaccharide made up of the amino sugar N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) and bound to glucosamine. Chitin is found in the outer shells of shellfish, including crab, lobster, crayfish, squid, and shrimp, as well as the cell walls of fungi, and is functionally comparable to keratin. While chitosan has benefits like antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-carcinogenic properties, and has been shown to stabilize glycemia, maintain satiety, reduce cholesterol, and help to normalize digestive function, it is most widely known as a weight loss aid. Like other forms of fibre, chitosan is indigestible, so it moves through the gastrointestinal system without being absorbed. This is why chitosan is often referred to as a "fat binder" thanks to its natural ability to bind with fat. Indeed, chitosan is capable of bonding up to 12 times its weight in fats – a process called polymerization. Because the resulting fat polymers are too large to be absorbed via the intestinal wall, they then travel through the body without being digested. This, of course, results in weight loss. Clinical trials on this mode of action have demonstrated that chitosan supplementation results in an average weight loss of 8% of body weight over the course of 4-weeks.

Chitosan Supplement Benefits

• Supports Healthy Weight & BMI
• Balances Cholesterol
• Promotes Weight Loss
• May Slow Appetite

Who Benefits From Chitosan Supplements?

Your practitioner may recommend a chitosan supplement as part of a treatment plan for unhealthy weight and obesity, along with a reduced-calorie, healthy diet and regular exercise program. Chitosan may also be recommended to those needing to optimize their blood lipid profiles by lowering total and bad (LDL) cholesterol, as well as stabilizing blood pressure, thus helping to promote cardiovascular health.

Chitosan Supplements

Chitosan supplements can be purchased as a powder or in capsule form in varying potencies. While there is no set standard as far as recommended dosing goes, most of the research has been done with a daily dose in the range of 0.34–3.4 g. Always follow the dosing instructions on the product label carefully.

Final Thoughts

While chitosan is primarily well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and an upset stomach. It's also important to note that, as a fat blocker, chitosan can impede the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), as well as that of fat-soluble medications like birth control pills. Those who are allergic to shellfish or mushrooms should avoid chitosan altogether.