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Chitosan is a polysaccharide compound that is found in the shells
of sea crustaceans. While chitosan is not digestible it appears to
reduce the absorption of bile acids and cholesterol, whereby
lowering levels of blood cholesterol. Chitosan's ability to lower
blood cholesterol has been shown in animals and a few human studies
showed that about 5 grams a day of chitosan taken for a few weeks
was able to produce a 6% drop in cholesterol.
There is some
preliminary evidence that supplemental chitosan may have beneficial
effects on lipids and be useful for those suffering from renal
failure. There is also evidence to support that chitosan might even
help to prevent atherosclerosis and could play a role in wound
healing, some types of diabetes and liver disease. While it has been
suggested that chitosan may help to reduce weight, prevent cancer,
heal ulcers, aid digestion and help the immune system these claims
have not be substantiated by any scientific
findings.
Chitosan is available in several supplemental
forms. When using chitosan to lower cholesterol 1000 to 2000
milligrams twice a day is a typical dosage. Make sure to check
purity of any chitosan supplement you intend to take as many
chitosan supplements may be contaminated with lead, mercury, iron,
copper and arsenic.
Never take chitosan within two hours of
taking vitamins A, D, E and K, flavonoids, carotenoids or
prescription drugs.
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