Chitosan

Medically reviewed by . Last updated on June 12, 2023

General Information

Description:

Chitosan is a powerful sorbent of natural origin, sorbent base of which is chitine. Chitine is a nitrogen-containing polysaccharide chemically bonded to cellulose, which forms a pink translucent substance and is the main constituent of outer skeleton or outer cover of insects, crustaceans and arachnids. In its natural state, it is found not only in shells of crustaceans, such as crabs, shrimps and lobsters, but also in outer skeleton of marine zooplankton, including corals and jellyfish. Such insects as butterflies and ladybugs contain chitine in their wings. The cell walls of yeast, fungi also contain this natural substance.

Indications:

  • Reducing cardiovascular diseases risk;
  • Body detoxification;
  • Normalization of gastrointestinal tract;
  • Prevention of diabetes mellitus;
  • Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus;
  • Increased immunity;
  • Wound healing;
  • Gallstone disease;
  • Disbacteriosis;
  • Atony of intestine;
  • Osteoporosis;
  • Gout;
  • Hypertension;
  • Oncological diseases;
  • Ischemic heart disease.

Contraindications:

Studies have shown that prolonged intake of Chitosan in large doses can lead to impaired absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. To assimilate four fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E and K, fats are required. Additives with Chitosan can also increase risk of calcium, magnesium and selenium deficiency.

The inadequacy of these nutrients can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis in adults, as well as growth retardation in children. The following two recommendations will allow consumers to avoid such consequences:

  • Every day, take vitamins containing fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and minerals: calcium, selenium and magnesium. The time of reception should not coincide with the intake of Chitosan.
  • Do not give Chitosan to children. Do not use Chitosan during pregnancy and lactation.

About

Melisa Puckey, BPharm is a New Zealand–registered pharmacist accredited to supply emergency contraception, sildenafil, trimethoprim, chloramphenicol, and clozapine. She has over ten years of experience in community pharmacy, focusing on patient care, medication safety, and treatment accuracy. Her medical writing centers on evidence-based topics including COVID-19, oncology, dermatology, and reproductive health. Melisa is a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand, the Australasian Medical Writers' Association, and the American Medical Writers Association.

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