Understanding Chitosan Capsules: Their Medical And Nutritional Roles

Happened to watch the chitosan capsule advertisement that promises quick weight reduction? Before getting into the benefits of chitosan capsules, first, let’s try to understand what exactly is chitosan and how it works.

What Is Chitosan?

In simple terms, chitosan is a fibrous compound found on the shells of crustaceans including shrimp, lobsters, and crabs. It is an enzymatic reaction that leads to the production of chitosan in a form that is more suitable for supplements. As per studies, the market size of chitosan globally was valued at USD 12.07 billion in 2022 and is expected to touch USD 84.88 billion by 2031.

Chitin – The main element Of chitosan 

It is the presence of chitin, a special compound in chitosan that helps it function as a natural fat absorber and aids in weight reduction. For making chitin, an alkaline substance such as caustic soda is used to remove the acetyl group from the chitin shells or exoskeletons of insects, fungi, and crustaceans.

How Do Chitosan Supplements Work?

Chitosan supplements are often projected as fat-blockers. It turns into a gel in your stomach and subsequently moves to the intestines. Thus, the chitosan supplements bind to fat and cholesterol and in turn, reduce cholesterol by removing fat and cholesterol from your body instead of allowing the body to absorb them.

Ultimately, chitosan supplements support weight reduction and cut down your cholesterol levels.

Forms Of Chitosan 

Chitosan is available in the market in two forms, i.e. supplements or capsules. Chitosan capsules generally function as a weight management pill.

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Benefits Of Chitosan Tablets

Now, let’s delve deep into the benefits of taking chitosan tablets.

1. Helps In Weight Reduction

A 2018 study conducted among people with obesity or overweight shows that chitosan supplementation along with a calorie-restricted diet and physical activity leads to a slight reduction in body weight and body mass index (BMI). To add on, a clinical trial result shows that a more effective method for weight loss will be to supplement 3 grams of chitosan per day combined with 2 grams of L-ascorbic acid — a type of vitamin C.

However, it is to be noted that there is no consistent scientific evidence that supports the use of chitosan in weight reduction. The effect of chitosan supplements on body weight is likely clinically insignificant. 

2. Cuts Down Cholesterol Levels

When compared to weight loss, chitosan tablets work more effectively in lowering your cholesterol levels. According to studies, supplementing with chitosan reduces both total cholesterol as well as LDL (bad) cholesterol. Though it did not impact HDL (good) cholesterol, chitosan supplementation may still be effective in your cholesterol management plan.

As in the case of weight reduction, more research is needed to prove the effectiveness of chitosan in cholesterol reduction.

3. Other Benefits

Chitosan capsules available in the market claim to be effective in controlling blood pressure. The other advantages mentioned in the advertisements include improved bone health as chitosan helps absorb calcium and also improves digestive health. Chitosan tablets is also marketed to be effective in stopping bleeding as chitosan stops blood from clotting.  

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Conclusion

Hope you got valuable insights about the use of chitosan capsules after reading this article. However, make sure that you consult with your doctor before taking the chitosan capsules. In some people consuming chitosan capsules, it may cause constipation, nausea, and stomach upset.

Also, If you’re allergic to shellfish or mushrooms, stay away from using chitosan supplements.  These supplements may also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, and calcium and magnesium.

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