Chitosan is a gel-like compound that is typically found in exoskeletons of shrimp, crabs and lobsters as well as in fungi and yeasts, according to Drugs.com. This supplement can be used to help treat a variety of conditions, but should not be used by individuals who are allergic to shellfish, as it may cause an allergic reaction. If you are interested in using chitosan, talk with your doctor about whether this supplement is appropriate for you.
Oral Health
Chitosan possesses antibacterial properties and has been used in various forms to promote dental and periodontal health. According to Drugs.com, chitosan chewing gum, mouthwashes and gels have all been used to reduce plaque and kill germs. A 2010 study by T.M. Arnaud et al., published in the "Journal of Dentistry," found that chitosan prevented demineralization of the teeth because it inhibited the release of phosphorus. Chewing chitosan gum has shown to help prevent dental caries. Y. Hayashi et al. published a study in the "Archives of Oral Biology" in 2007 that found individuals who chewed chitosan gum had less oral bacteria than those who did not chew the gum. Talk to your dentist or periodontist about how chitosan may be of help to you.
Weight Loss
Over-the-counter chitosan supplements have been touted as weight loss supplements due to their possible interference with fat absorption, but conflicting research exists. Chitosan contains positively charged amino groups that may bind to negatively charged fat and bile compounds and prevent absorption by the body, says Drugs.com. A study published in 2010 by S.O. Hernandez-Gonzales et al. in the journal "Nutrition Research" found that obese subjects who received chitosan for three months had better insulin sensitivity; weight loss; and a reduction in body mass index, waist circumference and triglyceride levels. Drugs.com states that some studies have seen some weight loss, but not a clinically significant amount.
Bleeding
According to Drugs.com, chitosan may help to control blood loss when applied to a wound. A study performed by R. Valentine et al., published in the "American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy," found that a chitosan gel applied to surgical wounds post-surgery significantly decreased bleeding time when compared to patients who did not have the gel applied. The Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of chitosan-treated bandages for controlling blood loss in emergency situations, says Drugs.com.
Dosing and Considerations
Dosages of chitosan have varied, from 0.24 g to 15 g daily, with the median being 3.7 g, to help treat high cholesterol levels and weight loss, says Drugs.com. Chitosan chewing gums releasing 2 percent w/v in saliva have also been used, for oral health studies. Pregnant or nursing women should ask a doctor if it is safe to take chitosan before consuming it, as safety information is lacking in these populations. Talk to your health care provider before using chitosan, as it may interact with certain drugs or vitamins.
References
- Drugs.com: Complete Chitosan Information
- "Journal of Dentistry"; Chitosan Effect on Dental Enamel Demineralization: An In-Vitro Evaluation; T.M. Arnaud et al.; 2010
- "Archives of Oral Biology"; Chewing Chitosan-Containing Gum Effectively Inhibits the Growth of Carciogenic Bacteria; Y. Hayashi et al.; 2007
- "Nutrition Research"; Chitosan Improves Insulin-Sensitivity as Determined by the Euglycemic-Hyperinsulinemic Clamp Technique in Obese Patients; S.O. Hernandez-Gonzales; 2010
- "American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy"; The Efficacy of a Novel Chitosan Gel on Hemostasis and Wound Healing After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery; R. Valentine et al.; 2010
Member Comments