If you're surrounded by advertisements of weight-loss supplements that promise fast results, you may be tempted to use one to supplement your diet and exercise. One supplement you may consider is chitosan. Chitosan is made from a substance called chitin, which forms shells of sea creatures such as shrimp and crabs, according to Health Services at Columbia University. Weigh the potential pros and cons of this product before you invest in a bottle.
Purported Function
Chitosan is similar to fiber because it passes through your intestines without being absorbed. It carries some of the fat you recently ate, but it won't remove any fat deposits in your body, according to Health Services at Columbia University. Makers of chitosan supplements claim taking an average of 2 to 6 g of chitosan per day will help reduce your cholesterol and aid you in losing weight, according to the Colorado State University Extension.
Research
Some evidence suggests chitosan is more effective than a placebo in treating overweight and obesity in the short term. However, many chitosan trials have been low in quality; the highest-quality trials indicate chitosan's ultimate effect on body weight is minimal, according to a 2008 University of Auckland review of 15 trials, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
Safety
The FDA doesn't test dietary supplements for effectiveness or safety before the supplements are sold. Supplement manufacturers are in charge of ensuring product safety before products are sold, and the FDA monitors safety after products are on the market. The FDA can ban or recall products it deems dangerous. Keep tabs on the FDA website for any safety updates or product recalls regarding chitosan if you plan to take a chitosan supplement, recommends the Mayo Clinic.
Potential Side Effects
Chitosan may lead to intestinal problems such as bloating, gas and diarrhea, according to the Colorado State University Extension. Additionally, because chitosan binds to and excretes some ingested fat, it may prevent absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and healthy plant compounds. It may also compromise the effects of fat-soluble medications such as oral contraceptives and estrogen, according to Health Services at Columbia University.
Considerations
Manufacturers of chitosan supplements, like manufacturers of any weight-loss supplement, want you to believe their product will help you achieve dramatic results. However, you will still need to burn more calories than your body uses by eating a well-balanced diet, eating smaller portions and engaging in daily physical activity, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you still decide to take a chitosan supplement and it works for you, you may not be able to maintain the weight loss once you stop taking the pills.
Member Comments