Chitosan

Chitosan is a polysaccharide from crustacean shells (shrimp, crab) that binds dietary fat in the intestine — acting as a 'fat blocker.' A 2008 Cochrane review found chitosan produced statistically significant but CLINICALLY MEANINGLESS weight loss (1.7 kg more than placebo). The fat-binding capacity is real but insufficient to produce meaningful results. Also reduces LDL cholesterol by 5-10%. Shellfish allergy concern. Our assessment: works in theory, fails in practice for weight loss. --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*