Chitosan

Chitosan is a natural fibre source derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans, such as shrimp, crab and other shellfish, Chitosan may be considered a dietary fibre when consumed.

As it is an indigestible fibre, Chitosan may provide benefits for the health of the gastrointestinal tract through its scouring action. It may also contribute to reduced intestinal decay (bacterial decomposition of slow-moving or stuck food in the gut), which may benefit other health concerns, including risk of colon cancer.

Chitosan has displayed the ability to prevent bile and cholesterol absorption, as well as assisting the excretion of cholesterol. These effects may result in lower blood cholesterol levels. In a published study, 3-6 grams of Chitosan daily taken for 2 weeks resulted in a 6% drop in overall cholesterol levels, and specifically a 10% increase in HDL (‘good’) cholesterol, indicating that it acts primarily on LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol.

Chitosan may also benefit kidney health. In a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, patients being treated for kidney failure with dialysis were given 4 grams of Chitosan daily for 12 weeks. These individuals displayed a total cholesterol reduction of 43%, as well as improved kidney function and less severe anaemia. And in a study published in Microbial Ecology in Health and Disease, 3-6 grams of Chitosan taken daily for two weeks was shown to reduce the indicators of intestinal decay.