Chitosan
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A fiber-like substance produced by processing chitin, a component found in the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp and crab.
Why it’s used
Taken by some for weight management, on the idea that it binds dietary fat in the gut, and sometimes for cholesterol support.
What the evidence is for
modest reduction in body weight.
What the evidence says
A Cochrane systematic review of chitosan trials for weight loss found only a small, likely clinically insignificant reduction in body weight compared with placebo, based on generally low-quality evidence.
Dose studied
1–15 g — range of daily doses used across trials reviewed in a Cochrane meta-analysis on weight loss.
Context
Trials reviewed used chitosan doses ranging roughly from 1 to 15 grams per day over periods of 4 weeks to 6 months, with inconsistent results across studies.
Educational information, not medical or safety advice. Consult a professional for allergies or medical concerns.