Not all people know what chitin is. Few still remember information about this element from biology lessons. Where does it occur in nature? Why is the body needed? The answers to these questions are presented in the article.
Description of the substance
Chitin is a natural compound of nitrogen-containing polysaccharides. It occurs naturally in crustacean skeletons, insect wings, fungal tissue, and plant stems and leaves.
Until recently, chitin was considered a waste material, because it cannot dissolve in various alkalis and in water. However, this element is of great importance for many living beings. It should be borne in mind that chitin is a substance that is part of the human body. Thanks to him, we form very strong nails and hair.
Meaning in wildlife
Chitin is the main part of the external skeleton in many arthropods. This includes crustaceans, spiders and some insects. Since the bodies of such inhabitants of our planet are devoid of internal skeletons, something must protect their internal organs from damage. Therefore, we can say with confidence that chitin performs a protective function.
However, this element does not exist by itselfyourself. It is combined with other substances, such as proteins, and this allows it to be more rigid, or vice versa, more flexible. First of all, the chitinous cover is designed to protect internal organs. But besides that, it also protects the body from drying out and dehydration.
The disadvantage of such a shell is that it cannot increase in size. Therefore, the animal is forced to shed it and wait until a new protective shell is formed. It does not take much time, but the representative of the fauna at this time becomes defenseless.
Chitin is a substance that is part of the shells of only small animals. Such a shell will not be able to protect large individuals. It is not suitable for terrestrial invertebrate inhabitants. Over time, the outer skeleton begins to become heavier and coarser, which means that it becomes more and more difficult to move around in it.
Role in the human body
Chitin is responsible for binding lipids in the human body This indicates that the intestines become easier to work, the level of cholesterol and other harmful lipids in the body decreases. Digestion is normalized, the work of the stomach improves. This element also stimulates the mineralization of bone tissue in the human body. However, it cannot be taken for a long time, as this can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system and lead to the reproduction of pathogenic and opportunistic flora in the body.
Chitin is a source of fiber and also helps to fight excess weight. Can help strengthen bonesskeleton, as well as increase the number of bifidobacteria in the body. When exposed to the skin, chitin has an antimicrobial effect, promotes rapid healing of wounds, abrasions and cuts. The element also has a positive effect on nails, skin and hair. Therefore, it is included in many cosmetics and vitamin supplements.
Chitin in mushrooms
Mushrooms are a valuable product for the human body. They contain a lot of useful substances, such as selenium, potassium, zinc, copper, as well as a large amount of B vitamins. However, this is not all. The composition of such products also includes chitin. Mushrooms are considered a unique species of organisms due to a special fleshy tissue called mycelium. Such a structure is given to it by the chitin that is part of the mycelium. Not surprisingly, mushrooms occupy a special place between animals and plants and fulfill their unique role in the human body.
Chitin in mushrooms will only benefit the body if you consume a moderate amount of this product.
Do not forget that this element is not digested and absorbed in the intestines, although it improves digestion. Chitin in the cell wall of the fungus is a fiber for the human body. However, scientists do not recommend eating mushrooms very often. They can be included in the diet only occasionally, no more than once a week. It is not recommended to eat mushrooms for children under 7 years old.
Role in digestion
Scientists have proven that chitin introduced into the dietanimals have a positive effect on the digestive system. This substance is able to fight excess weight, as well as lower blood pressure. When used correctly, it will relieve stomach and intestinal ulcers, provide easy digestion of food. The use of chitin will relieve constipation, diarrhea, and also remove toxins from the body.
Scientists have proven that eating a moderate amount of chitin will provide an increase in the intestines of certain groups of beneficial microorganisms. By taking this dietary supplement, you reduce the risk of developing malignant tumors and polyps.
Eating insects
As mentioned above, chitin consists of nitrogen-containing polysaccharides. Since ancient times, the inhabitants of Africa and the Middle East have eaten a large number of insects. At the same time, such a dish was not considered a dessert, but was a full meal. This is evidenced by ancient records. For example, in some peoples they ate locusts with milk. For other peoples, termites or boiled ants were a real delicacy.
However, even today you can taste dishes made from insects. Of course, scientists were interested in eating insects by the natives, so various scientific studies were carried out. Eating insects has been found to be very beneficial for human he alth. Firstly, the composition of the cell membranes of insects includes chitin, which is already a definite plus. However, this is not all. For example, the body of a grasshopper contains almostas much protein as in beef meat. This is why insects are considered complete nutritious foods.
Chitin deficiency
Cellulose, chitin are substances similar in composition and function. However, the first of them is part of plant cells, and the second is part of the arthropod cell wall.
The first thing you should pay attention to is the increased level of cholesterol in the body. Another symptom that indicates a deficiency of chitin is the malfunction of the kidneys. However, these are not all signs. Very often, people with a lack of this element suffer from decreased appetite, weakness, improper bowel function, slagging of the body, frequent allergic reactions, joint pain and obesity.
If you notice the symptoms listed above, be sure to see a doctor. If the doctor establishes a chitin deficiency, he will select the right diet for you, and also include multivitamin complexes in it.
Use area
Chitin is very actively used in many areas of human life. For example, it is used to make strong and reliable surgical sutures. It is also able to quickly absorb liquids, so it is used to make various sponges and tampons. Do not forget that chitin has antibacterial properties. Therefore, it can be used to make various dressings.
Besides this, chitin has found itsapplication in cosmetology, in the manufacture of animal feed, as well as in agriculture and microbiology.
