Wizard of Vitamins

Chitosan Vitamin

What is Chitosan?

Chitosan is a polysaccharide found in the shells of crustaceans.

Chitosan in Diets

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

Chitosan Medicinal Treatments

High cholesterol Kidney failure Weight loss

Known Consequences of Chitosan Deficiency

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

Chitosan Recommended Dosages

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

Chitosan 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.