What Is Chitosan?

Chitosan is one of the fundamental ingredients playing a part of commercial and biomedical applications. However, most people do not know what Chitosan is and majority of people do not have much knowledge about it either. It is human nature to be curious about the new things and is no different with Chitosan. This is why people who hear the word "Chitosan" for the first time ever seem interested in finding out what Chitosan really is.

The basic answer of this query is that Chitosan is a natural compound derived from chitin. Chitin is polymeric carbohydrate generally found in the outer skeletons of crustaceans and shellfish. Previously, people mostly make use of Chitosan in processes such as water detoxification. Although, the existence of Chitosan is quite old yet its latest form has just been prepared in recent times. Another significant the discovery that Chitosan is a natural compound with similar chemical properties as that of cellulose.

Cellulose is a fibrous plant and as Chitosan chemically resembles to it that is why it possesses fibrous properties. These fibers has made Chitosan a significant ingredient in products used for controlling weight and cholesterol of human body. The fibrous nature of Chitosan considerably helps in binding fat present in human's digestive tract. This fat magnet is slightly capable of preventing the fat to be absorbed in human body. Chitosan products are also helpful in promoting the healing process of lesions as well as ulcers.

Moreover, some of the Chitosan based products may involve its antacid properties, which seem quite helpful in reducing the plaque formation plus tooth decay. Several biomedical studies on Chitosan have revealed that it is quite useful substance for controlling blood pressure. In addition, this valuable compound is also present in medicinal products used for following purposes.

• Prevention from constipation
• Reduction in blood levels of uric acid
• Calcium enhancer
• Bone strengthener

Number of biomedical and chemical analysis has been carried out by professionals just to get answer. These analyses have shown that Chitosan actually absorbs the oils, toxic substances and greases etc when spread over water surface. This exposes the attractive property of Chitosan towards bio-hazardous substances often present in human body because of drinking water. However, medical studies fail in providing the basis for safe use of Chitosan in a routine diet.

By Robert Perkis
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