NOW Foods Chitosan 500 mg Plus Chromium: Advanced Fat-Binding & Metabolic Support
Managing daily caloric intake and supporting healthy lipid levels can be challenging when meals contain unexpected fats. NOW Foods Chitosan 500 mg plus Chromium provides a scientifically validated, non-stimulant strategy for weight management and metabolic health. Each 3-capsule serving delivers 1,500 mg of patented LipoSan ULTRA® chitosan—a specialized, high-density marine dietary fiber—paired with 300 mcg of chelated TRAACS® Chromium Nicotinate Glycinate to stabilize glucose uptake and blunt food cravings.
Unlike conventional fiber supplements that take nearly an hour to activate in the digestive tract, LipoSan ULTRA® dissolves in stomach acid in under five minutes. This allows you to take it immediately before meals to trap dietary fats before digestion begins, supporting both body composition and cardiovascular health.
✓1,500 mg Patented LipoSan ULTRA®: Binds up to five times more dietary fat in laboratory testing than standard chitosan forms.
✓300 mcg TRAACS® Chelated Chromium: Supports healthy insulin signaling and normal carbohydrate metabolism.
✓Cardiovascular Support: Helps maintain serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within the healthy normal range.
✓Clean Formulation: Non-GMO, Soy-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Halal, and encapsulated in 100% vegetarian capsules.
How It Works: The Molecular Mechanics of Chitosan & Chromium
Chitosan is a poly-cationic polysaccharide derived from the chitin shells of marine crustaceans through a process called deacetylation. To understand how it works inside the body, think of chitosan as a molecular fat magnet that works through four straightforward biological steps:
Rapid Stomach Solubilization: When standard chitosan enters the stomach, it takes 45 to 60 minutes to dissolve. LipoSan ULTRA® contains a patented addition of succinic acid, allowing it to dissolve and activate in stomach gastric acid in under five minutes.
Electrostatic Fat Trapping: In the acidic environment of the stomach, the amino groups (-NH₂) on the chitosan molecular chain pick up hydrogen ions and become positively charged (-NH₃⁺). Dietary lipids, free fatty acids, and bile salts carry negative charges. Because opposites attract, chitosan forms a strong electrostatic and hydrophobic bond with emulsified fats from your meal.
Formation of an Indigestible Gel Matrix: Once bound, the chitosan and fat molecules crosslink into a dense, non-absorbable gel matrix. Because the human digestive tract completely lacks the enzyme chitinase, our enzymes (such as pancreatic lipase) cannot break this gel down. Instead of being converted into calories or body fat, the trapped fat travels safely through the intestines and is eliminated naturally in regular bowel movements.
Synergistic Glucose Control via Chromium: While chitosan targets dietary fats, chromium works at the cellular level. Chromium is an essential cofactor in the production of chromodulin (low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance), an intracellular oligopeptide that amplifies the activity of insulin receptors. This helps clear glucose from the bloodstream into muscle tissue efficiently, preventing sharp insulin spikes and reducing post-meal carbohydrate cravings.
Authoritative Scientific References:
• Moraru, C., et al. (2018). A Meta-Analysis on Randomised Controlled Clinical Trials Evaluating the Effect of the Dietary Supplement Chitosan on Weight Loss, Lipid Parameters and Blood Pressure. Medicina (Kaunas), 54(6): 109. DOI: 10.3390/medicina54060109.
• Kaats, G. R., Michalek, J. E., & Preuss, H. G. (2006). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examining the effects of a rapidly soluble chitosan dietary supplement on weight loss and body composition in overweight and mildly obese individuals. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise / ResearchGate Publication 236834995.
• Vincent, J. B. (2000). The Biochemistry of Chromium. The Journal of Nutrition, 130(4): 715–718. DOI: 10.1093/jn/130.4.715.
• Ylitalo, R., et al. (2002). Cholesterol-lowering properties and safety of chitosan. Arzneimittelforschung, 52(1): 1–7. DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1299848.
We cross-reference every production batch directly with official manufacturer master specifications to guarantee full label transparency and formula integrity.
Free From: Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, tree nut, or sesame ingredients. Produced in a GMP-certified facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
NOW Foods Lab Purity: Advanced Contaminant Screening & Testing Standards
Because marine raw materials can be exposed to environmental pollutants, rigorous laboratory verification is non-negotiable for consumer safety. NOW Foods maintains one of the most comprehensive private analytical testing operations in North America, investing millions annually to ensure that every lot meets strict purity criteria:
✓ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited Laboratories: Testing is performed in facilities independently audited and accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) for technical competence and analytical precision.
✓Ultra-Trace Heavy Metal Screening (ICP-MS): Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, incoming chitosan lots are evaluated down to parts-per-billion (ppb) for lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, complying with rigorous United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and California Proposition 65 thresholds.
✓Chromatographic Potency Verification (HPLC/UHPLC): High-Performance Liquid Chromatography confirms that every capsule delivers the labeled concentration of active de-acetylated chitosan and fully chelated TRAACS® chromium.
✓Microbiological Pathogen Defense: Advanced automated microbiology systems screen finished capsules for pathogenic Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, total aerobic bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
✓Third-Party cGMP Certification: NOW’s manufacturing facilities hold comprehensive Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) certifications through the Natural Products Association (NPA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Usage Instructions, Precautions & The Critical 4-Hour Rule
To maximize fat-binding efficacy while protecting nutrient absorption, follow these usage guidelines carefully:
Recommended Dosage: Take 3 capsules immediately before your two main meals of the day that contain dietary fats (for a total daily intake of 6 capsules). Consume each dose with a full 8-ounce glass of pure water. Do not exceed 6 capsules daily.
CRITICAL SAFETY RULE: The 4-Hour Separation Window
Because chitosan binds non-selectively to hydrophobic compounds, it will bind and block the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients and medications if taken at the same time. You must take the following at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking chitosan:
Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K (K1 and K2).
Lipophilic supplements: Omega-3 fish oils, CoQ10, evening primrose oil, and lutein.
Prescription medications: Oral contraceptives (birth control pills), hormone replacements, blood thinners, cardiac medications, and fat-soluble prescription therapies.
✓Hydration Requirement: Chitosan functions as a bulking fiber. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water throughout the day to prevent digestive discomfort or temporary constipation.
✓Shellfish Allergy Alert: This product contains chitosan derived from shrimp. Individuals with known shellfish allergies must avoid this supplement completely.
✓Contraindications: For adult use only. Not for use by pregnant or lactating women. Consult your physician before using if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take prescription drugs.
• Deuchi, K., et al. (1995). Decreasing effect of chitosan on the apparent absorption of dietary fat and vitamins in rats. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 59(5): 786–791. DOI: 10.1271/bbb.59.786.
Why Order NOW Foods Chitosan From VitaNet®?
Where you purchase your nutritional supplements matters just as much as what brand you select. When buying from unverified third-party online marketplaces, products are often stored in overheated, uncontrolled shipping containers or shipped near expiration by anonymous drop-shippers. VitaNet®, LLC offers an entirely transparent, family-owned shopping experience backed by decades of retail integrity[cite: 1]:
✓Serving Customers Online Since 1995: With over 31 years of dedicated hands-on experience in human biochemistry and natural wellness retail, VitaNet® is one of America’s pioneering online supplement providers[cite: 1].
✓Direct-From-Manufacturer Freshness: We maintain climate-controlled warehousing in Hartville, Ohio[cite: 1], receiving fresh, factory-sealed inventory directly from licensed distributors rather than liquidation auctions.
✓Industry-Leading 100% Money-Back Guarantee: We stand unconditionally behind every product we sell. If you are unsatisfied for any reason, we refund your purchase and even cover the return shipping costs—even on opened bottles[cite: 1].
✓BBB A+ Accredited Independent Business: You can reach genuine natural health product specialists directly by telephone during business hours[cite: 1].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is LipoSan ULTRA® different from regular chitosan supplements?
Regular chitosan takes roughly 45 to 60 minutes to dissolve in gastric juices, meaning you must remember to take it well in advance of eating. LipoSan ULTRA® is a patented form enhanced with succinic acid that dissolves in stomach acid in under five minutes. In independent laboratory testing, it binds up to three to five times more dietary fat by weight than conventional chitosan, allowing you to take it right as you sit down for your meal.
Why is chromium included in this chitosan formula?
While chitosan works directly in the digestive lumen to trap dietary fat, chromium works inside your cells. NOW uses Albion TRAACS® Chromium Nicotinate Glycinate Chelate, a bioavailable form that supports insulin receptor sensitivity. By helping your cells absorb glucose smoothly from your bloodstream, chromium helps curb afternoon sugar cravings and stabilizes energy levels during calorie-restricted diets.
Why do I have to wait 4 hours to take vitamins or prescription medicines?
Chitosan binds to all fats non-selectively. If taken together, it will encapsulate fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K), omega-3 fish oils, and fat-soluble medications (such as oral contraceptives or thyroid drugs), preventing your body from absorbing them. Leaving a 4-hour window before or after taking chitosan ensures your medications and vitamins are fully absorbed.
Can I take chitosan if I have a shellfish allergy?
No. Chitosan is derived from the outer exoskeleton shells of crustaceans (shrimp). Although the processing removes most proteins, individuals with shellfish allergies must avoid chitosan supplements completely due to the risk of allergic cross-reactivity.
Should I take chitosan with meals that contain no fat?
No. Chitosan specifically traps dietary lipids. If you are having a meal with little to no fat (such as black coffee and fruit, or plain steamed vegetables), taking chitosan is unnecessary. Reserve your doses for your two primary meals of the day that contain dietary oils, meats, dressings, or dairy fats.
Does chitosan cause uncomfortable digestive side effects?
Most individuals tolerate LipoSan ULTRA® very well without the severe digestive distress common with pharmaceutical fat blockers. Because chitosan acts as a soluble fiber, drinking an 8-ounce glass of water with each dose and staying hydrated throughout the day is critical to support smooth intestinal motility and prevent constipation.
Helpful Customer Reviews
Review of CHITOSAN PLUS 500mg 120 CAPS - NOW Product N2025 Reviewed by Ryan87
Saturday, May 7, 2011 Rating: 5/5
This supplement was so easy to keep up with. I was able to take the regular dose of 3 capsules with every meal easily. Luckily I am not allergic to shellfish as this contains certain shellfish. I have been rather impressed with the results from this product. I love that this supplement doesn't contain any salts, sugars, gluten, and soy as I personally try to stay away from that as much as possible.
