Chitosan


Introduction: 

Chitosan is a polysaccharide found in the shells of crustaceans.

Sources: 

"Chitosan is extracted from the shells of crustaceans, such as shrimp and crab."

Treatment For: 

High cholesterol Kidney failure Weight loss

Symptoms of Deficiency: 

"Chitosan is not an essential nutrient, so deficiencies do not occur."

Recommended Dosages: 

Most human research has used 3–6 grams per day with meals.

Side Effects: 

"While no long-term studies of the effects of chitosan on human health have been done, animal studies suggest that this compound could inhibit the absorption of minerals and fat-soluble vitamins. Adverse effects on the growth of children and on the outcome of pregnancy are also possible. In addition, although chitosan-included alterations in intestinal flora are believed to be beneficial, the possibility that these changes may have negative long-term consequences has not been ruled out. People with intestinal malabsorption syndromes should not use chitosan. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with chitosan."