Skip to main content

Fiber

Chitosan

Also known as: chitosan oligosaccharide, deacetylated chitin, shellfish-derived chitosan

C
Evidence

Chitosan is a polysaccharide fiber derived from shellfish exoskeletons that has been studied for lipid management and weight support. Evidence for meaningful clinical benefit is moderate at best, with mixed results in human trials.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

Find the best Chitosan supplements — free
See Chitosan products scored on dose & form, then track your intake in the app.
Open app →

Primary uses

  • Cholesterol support
  • Weight management
  • Lipid binding

How it works

  • Binds dietary lipids and cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract
  • May reduce fat absorption
  • Viscous fiber effects on satiety

Dosage

Typical range
500–3000 mg daily
Timing
With meals, particularly meals containing fat
With food
Take with food for intended lipid-binding effect
Duration
Typically used as ongoing supplement; studies range 4–24 weeks
Special populations
Shellfish allergy is a contraindication; caution in those with seafood sensitivities

Forms

  • Capsule· 70/100
  • Tablet· 70/100
  • Powder· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Constipation

Contraindications

  • Shellfish allergy or sensitivity
  • Severe gastrointestinal obstruction
  • Caution with history of bowel obstruction

Evidence notes

Some human studies show modest effects on cholesterol and weight, but results are inconsistent and effect sizes are small. Most positive data come from older trials; more recent rigorous RCTs show limited benefit. Not strong enough for grade B.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

Related in Fiber

Check a full stack

Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.

Open the checker

Where does Chitosan fit in your stack?

Answer two questions and get a stack graded on research — every ingredient scored on the evidence behind it, not the marketing.

Build my stack

2 questions · free · no account needed to start

Also on iPhone — get the free app

📬 Get new guides in your inbox

Evidence-based supplement guides, no spam

We send a short digest when new guides drop — nothing else. No affiliate pushes, no sponsored content, unsubscribe anytime.

Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.