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How
was Chitosan discovered?
Chitosan
is a dietary fiber that comes from chitin. It is a non-digeatable fiber found
in the shells of crabs, lobsters, and other crustaceans. It was in 1811that Henri
Braconnot first discovered Chitin. Bracannot noticed it as a certain substance
found in mushrooms that would not dissolve in sulfuric acid.
How
does Chitosan
work?
Chitosan causes weight loss
in individuals by stopping fat from being absorbed into the body. It attaches
itself to fat and pulls it out of the body before it can be taken in. This is
possible due to the fact that it is a lipophilic (undigestible fiber), a fiber
that is highly attracted to fat. The attraction comes from the positive ionic
charge that Chitosan carries. The fat binds to the Chitosan fiber and becomes
a large mass, which the body cannot absorb. This large mass is then eliminated
from the body. Every gram of chitosan that you consume will prevent the absorption
of roughly 4-6 grams of fat.
What
are the Pro's of Chitosan?
Chitosan is a naturally occurring fiber. It has the ability to remove fat before
it is absorbed into the body. It also helps with improving cholesterol. Chitosan
reduces the serum levels of bad LDL cholesterol, but raises beneficial HDL levels.
What
are the Con's of Chitosan?
High intakes can interfere with absorption of fat-soluble
vitamins (A, D, E, and K). There is also a possibility that it can cause gas,
bloating, diarrhea, and possible mild laxative effect that is associated with
dietary fiber Studies at this point have not been consistent when they evaluated
Chitosan as a weight loss supplement.
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