Product Reviews
Chitosan
What it is: Chitosan is a dietary fiber derived from chitin-a protein/sugar compound found in shellfish.
What it does: Chitosan is marketed as a fat blocker. Since it absorbs up to six times its weight in fat, theoretically it can bind the fat you eat and allow it to pass through your body undigested, thereby aiding in weight loss and improving cholesterol profiles.
Verdict: Despite the logical theoretical basis for chitosan, it has not consistently shown to be of value as a weight loss aid, with most studies reporting little or no difference over placebo. Several studies have shown mild reductions in LDL cholesterol (the "bad" form of cholesterol), but not to a level that reaches significance.
There are several problems with chitosan. First, chitosan doesn't reduce the fat already in your body. If you are overweight, it won't act as a fat burner. Second, it only bonds to some of the fat that you consume. Hence, if you overeat large amounts of fat, it won't be of great help. Finally, many of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) stored in your body also pass through your system, which can potentially be detrimental to your health. In sum, while chitosan seems good in theory, it doesn't work well in practice.
Side effects: Given its mode of action, chitosan has been known to cause gas, bloating, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders. As mentioned, the possibility of interfering with vitamin absorption poses the risk of significant health issues.
SUPPLEMENT GRADE: D
DISCLAIMER: The preceding review is meant for educational purposes only and should not be taken as advice on whether or not to use a particular product. Always consult your physician before taking any supplement.
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