Chitosan is derived from chitin, which serves as the basic substance of the shells of insects, crustaceans and crustaceans. Chitosan is mainly obtained from crab fishing and made from mushrooms. Since its discovery, chitosan is considered a popular dietary supplement in the diet industry. In the form of tablets it serves as a so-called "fat blocker" and helps with weight loss. Due to its chemical structure, the fiber is able to bind many times its own weight in fat. The fats bound in this way are no longer available to the body and are excreted as normal through the stool. As soon as the capsules swell, a gel-like mass forms, which binds dietary fat. So 2 grams of chitosan can bind 14 grams of fat. Due to the swelling effect with water, it also has a filling effect. Chitosan is also used as a medical device in wound healing. The active ingredient has an anti-microbial and hemostatic effect, which is why it can be used as a wound dressing. Furthermore, chitosan is used as an additive in toothpaste, in the paper and cotton industry and as a colorant for removing turbidity in the beverage industry. Chitosan has long been sought in the drug industry for use in microencapsulation and targeted release of pharmacological agents, including as a vector for gene therapy.
Chitosan capsules should be taken 30 minutes before a high-fat meal with plenty of fluids. Chitosan does not work if the capsules are taken between meals, if the intake is too short, or if the meal contains little fat but a lot of carbs and protein. As a fat binder, chitosan can absorb fats and expel them from the body. However, chitosan can not distinguish between different fats. Thus, "healthy" fats, which are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, are bound by chitosan. Supplementary intake of corresponding omega-3 fatty acids would be particularly advisable in this case. Also, an additional nutritional supplement by vitamin supplements is recommended to prevent a shortage of minerals and vitamins.
