| Basics |
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Chitosan is an all-natural product, which is derived from the polysaccharide chitin, by heating it with a chemical solution. Chitosan has the unique ability to attach itself to lipids or fats. Other than its fat binding action, it remains virtually inactive while inside the human body. It also has the advantage of being more soluble in water as compared to chitin. There are no calories in Chitosan since it is a non-digestible fiber.
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| Remedy For |
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Aiding the digestive process and promoting good digestive tract health. This makes Chitosan support healthy weight loss.
Maintaining healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Promoting overall health and well-being.
Treating irritable bowel syndrome.
Promoting healing of ulcers and lesions.
Helping speed bone repair and improve calcium absorption.
Exhibits antioxidant properties.
Beneficial in patients with kidney ailments.
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| Prevention |
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Prevents diarrhea.
Constipation.
Protects liver.
Reduce risk of tumors.
Lowers risk of ulcer.
Regulate blood pressure.
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| Usage Directions |
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Most human research has used 3–6 grams per day with meals.
When taking any fiber supplement it is recommended to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Chitosan works best when taken just prior to eating a high calorie meal. Any fat-soluble vitamin (A, D, E and K), medication or fatty acid should be taken at least 4 hours before or after ingestion.
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| Sources |
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Chitosan is a fiber derived from marine animals. It is found in the exo-skeletons of shrimp, crabs and other shellfish. The chitosan used to make nutritional supplements are derived from sources, like crab shells and lobster shells, that are not eaten as foods.
The most popular products of chitosan are capsules and tablets ranging in size from 500 to 1,000 mg. It is also used in moisturizers, bath lotions, and other body care products.
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| Possible Side Effects |
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Chitosan is nontoxic and free of side effects, although it shares the same precautions for safe use that apply to other types of fiber. While no long-term studies of the effects of Chitosan on human health have been done, animal studies suggest that harmful effects on mineral and fat-soluble vitamin absorption, on maintenance of normal intestinal flora, and on normal growth in children and during pregnancy are possible.
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| Overdose |
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Acute Overdose: Too much Chitosan may contribute to feeling overly full or distended.
Chronic Overdose: None
What to do: For an acute overdose, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately. For symptoms of chronic overdose, contact your doctor.
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| Caution |
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To prevent intestinal blockage they should always be taken with plenty of water. Also, Chitosan should be
taken separately from vitamins.
Moreover, with any of the following health conditions, it is recommended not to use Chitosol without consulting with a physician first: 
pregnant or lactating women
while taking blood thinners, such as Coumadin or Heparin
having significant small intestine inflammation or ischemic bowel disease
having osteoporosis
being on a complicated medication regimen at multiple intervals during the day
people who are allergic to shellfish or seafood
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