Limited evidenceHeart & metabolic

Chitin-Glucan

An insoluble fibre from fungal cell walls (usually Aspergillus niger), marketed for oxidised LDL and cardiovascular risk. The claim rests on essentially one randomized trial, and the effect on standard cholesterol values was absent.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

Oxidised LDL Limited evidence
A multicentre randomized controlled trial found that chitin-glucan fibre reduced oxidised LDL concentrations compared with control over several weeks. It is a single trial using a surrogate marker, not clinical cardiovascular outcomes.
Standard lipid values Limited evidence
In that same trial, chitin-glucan did not meaningfully change LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol or triglycerides. Anyone buying it expecting cholesterol lowering should know that was not observed.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseThe trial used roughly 1.5–4.5 g of chitin-glucan per day. Commercial products commonly supply 1.5–3 g daily.

SafetyFibre-type effects predominate: bloating, gas and altered stools. Because the source is a fungus, people with mould or fungal allergy should be cautious, and shellfish-allergic consumers should note that some chitin sources are crustacean-derived even though this one is not. Take separately from medications, as with any bulk fibre.

Scientific references

Chitin-glucan fiber effects on oxidized low-density lipoprotein: a randomized controlled trial
Bays HE, Evans JL, Maki KC — Eur J Clin Nutr, 2013

Where to buy

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