Chitosan might cause small changes in cholesterol and blood sugar levels, but the study didn't say if they went up or down.
Scientific Claim
Chitosan supplementation may be associated with small, statistically significant changes in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and plasma glucose levels compared to placebo (P<0.01), but the direction of change was not specified in the abstract.
Original Statement
“Similar small changes occurred in circulating total and LDL cholesterol, and glucose (P<0.01).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The abstract reports changes but does not specify direction, so using 'associated with' is appropriate. The RCT design supports causation, but without direction, the verb strength should be association.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The effect of the dietary supplement, Chitosan, on body weight: a randomised controlled trial in 250 overweight and obese adults