Chitosan a new fiber derived from chitin in shellfish, is classified as a no digestible amino polysaccharide. The chemical nature of the chitosan fiber makes it bind with fat, which becomes a large mass that the body cannot absorb as it passes through the intestinal tract. Chitosan is synthesized by removing acetyl groups from chitin, through a process called deacetylation. Chitosan does not contain any appreciable amounts of toxic minerals such as mercury, which have previously been associated with the meaty portions of certain shellfish. When taken as part of the Maximum Metabolism Weight Loss Plan, body fat may be reduced.
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Why should I take Chitosan?
Like other fibers, Chitosan is indigestible, and can reduce "transit time", which is the time it takes for foods to pass through the digestive system and out of the body. Therefore less fats in general, including cholesterol, sterols, fatty acids, and essential fatty acids are available to be absorbed. Dietary fiber is usually deficient in modern diets where foods are more highly processed. Fiber tends to increase stool bulk, hydration and it acts as a catalyst for colonic micro flora, all of which speed transit time, and produces a softer stool.
Chitosan is soluble in stomach acid and its amino groups become positively charged via proteination by the acid. In the presence of dietary fatty acids, which carry net negative charges, ionic bonds form that binds the fatty acids to the chitosan amino groups.
As the soluble chitosan and fatty acid complex moves into the small intestine, it also binds with bile acids and cholesterol that are present. The complex absorbs up to 400 times its weight in water and begins to floc (mass) due to the higher, less acidic pH in the small intestine. This flocculation further aids the binding process by trapping or encapsulating all of the bound lipids, including cholesterol.
How does Chitosan Work?
As the pH continues to increase the chitosan floc forms an insoluble gel consisting of chitosan, bile acids, bound lipids and cholesterol. The gelatin and subsequent insolubility of the chitosan complex beneficial effects any of the bound fats from being absorbed into the blood stream. The insoluble gel is than passed into the large intestine which can present unique problems. When these fats pass through to the large intestine the bacterial flora present creates large amounts of intestinal gas and cramping, but since this bound complex is trapped in the gel it can not react in this way and is safely passed through. The key to chitosan’s functionality appears to be the presence of repeating amino groups throughout its polymeric structure.
Chitosan Research
Although the mechanism by which chitosan works is still being researched, animal studies have shown that chitosan binds with bile salts in the digestive tract, reduces the absorption of certain dietary fats (like cholesterol and oleic acid), and plays a role in maintaining healthy serum cholesterol levels in laboratory animals. (Results of animal studies may not extrapolate to humans). Chitosan also binds fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K, making them unavailable to the body. There is a concern that absorption of carotenoids (including beta carotene) is also impaired.
Chitosan BenefitsChitosan Side Effects
Too much chitosan may contribute to feeling overly full or distended.
Unfortunately, the fact that chitosan beneficial effects fat absorption also means that it can also cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea (due to fermentation of the fat in the large intestine). The possibility also exists for chitosan, at high intakes, to interfere with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and the carotenoids (such as beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) – in a similar way to how the “fake-fat” Olestra can reduce absorption of these nutrients.
Major Forms
Chitosan is available in tablets and capsules form
Recommended Dosage
Take 3 capsules 60 minutes before a fat containing meal with 8 ounces of water. For optimal results, have no more than two fat-containing meals per day. Do not take fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K within three hours.
Storage
Always store in a cool, dry place
Chitosan Cautions
Keep out of the reach of children
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product |
