back to faq index

Q. What is the toxicity of FibreNet?

A. Chitosan has the same low toxic level as sugar and flour at 16 grams per kilogram (2.2 lbs.) of body weight.

Q. When should I take FibreNet?

A. Take four capsules with 250mL of liquid immediately prior to your two largest meals.

Q. Why do I have diarrhea, constipation, bloating, cramping, and/or headaches, since using FibreNet?

A. Some individuals may experience some gastrointestinal discomfort when increasing their intake of fibre. Symptoms vary from person to person, and can be avoided by changing dietary habits gradually. Water is essential for the proper function of the digestive system and the elimination of waste. Health professionals suggest drinking at least six to eight glasses of water throughout the day to insure the appropriate function of the gastrointestinal tract.

Q. I have been using FibreNet: why haven't I lost any weight?

A. FibreNet is not guaranteed to make anyone lose weight. There is no such thing as a passive weight loss product. There are numerous factors involved in weight loss and all of these factors need to be taken into consideration when looking at weight loss. Some of these factors are: total calorie intake, fat intake, exercise, medications, the desired amount of weight loss, and heredity.

Q. I have been using FibreNet: why have I gained weight?

A. FibreNet has no caloric value and is an insoluble fibre which passes directly through the digestive system. There is nothing in the product that would cause weight gain.

Q. What if I am allergic to shellfish?

A. Chitosan, obtained from the exoskeleton of shellfish, is an insoluble fibre. Before processing, the raw exoskeleton is composed of insoluble fibre, protein, and trace elements, such as iodine. During the manufacturing process, chitosan is refined to such an extent that the insoluble fibre is the only significant nutrient remaining. The protein and iodine are removed during the refinement process. If an individual has been informed by a physician that protein or iodine is the allergen causing the allergy, they should consult with their physician on taking this product. Secondly, if an individual is allergic to a shellfish other than shrimp or crab, they still may be able to take the product. If an individual is unaware of the agent causing their allergy, we do not recommend the product and a physician should be consulted.

Q. Can I take my medication with FibreNet?

A. If a person is taking medication they need to consult with their physician before taking FibreNet. In order to check if there will be an interaction between FibreNet and their medication, the person should call their physician or a local pharmacist. Explain to the physician or pharmacist that it is an insoluble fibre that has the potential to attract negatively charged molecules. It is recommended to take FibreNet one hour before or after any medication.

Q. What is the difference between Chitosan and PolmerPlex?

A. PolmerPlex is chitosan that has undergone an additional refinement process. This refinement process removes additional acetyl groups.

Q. How does FibreNet differ from Olestra in fat-soluble vitamin absorption?

A. Olestra is a fat replacement which interferes with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. FibreNet will not remove all the fat taken into the system which will still allow the fat-soluble vitamins to be transported and absorbed into the system.

Q. Can FibreNet and FibreNet Plus be taken together?

A. Yes, the two products serve different purposes in the body. FibreNet is an insoluble fibre. FibreNet Plus contains both insoluble and soluble forms of fibre and functions as an aid to normal digestion.

Q. Will FibreNet interact with fat-soluble vitamins?

A. Some fat in your diet is necessary of optimal health. Fat provides a source of essential fatty acids necessary for the normal function of many physiological processes in the body. Fat also plays an important role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A,D,E & K). The minimum fat intake necessary for absorption of fat soluble vitamins is about 12-15 grams a day, less than 10% of total kilojoule intake. FibreNet Plus's effect on fat-soluble vitamins is considered to be minimal. FibreNet will not cause a vitamin deficiency when taken as recommended.

Q. What is chitosan derived from?

A. Pharmanex's chitosan is derived from shrimp and crab off the shores of Norway. The shells of the shrimp and crab are by-products of the shrimp & crab industry, and would otherwise be discarded.

Q. It is recommended that Australian's eat 35-50g fibre a day, why is FibreNet Plus so low?

A. Recommended fibre intake is 35-50 grams per day. For example, the current Australian diet only provides 15-20 grams per day. Fibre is important in the diet, as it assists in digestive regularity, provides a feeling of fullness, and is indicated in many studies to assist in preventing digestive disorders.

Q. Can I take my medication with FibreNet?

A. If a person is taking medication they need to consult with their physician before taking FibreNet. In order to check if there will be an interaction between FibreNet and their medication, the person should call their physician or a local pharmacist. Explain to the physician or pharmacist that it is an insoluble fibre that has the potential to attract negatively charged molecules. It is recommended to take FibreNet one hour before or after any medication.

Q. How do you know FibreNet doesn't contain toxins?

A. Pharmanex is very selective when choosing manufacturers. Our manufacturers go through a detailed selection and certification process to assure their compliance with the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards set by the Food and Drug Administration. Following production, routine product audits are performed by independent FDA certified laboratories where products are analyzed for purity and potency.

Q. How does FibreNet differ from Olestra in fat-soluble vitamin absorption?

A. Olestra is a fat replacement which interferes with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. FibreNet will not remove all the fat taken into the system which will still allow the fat-soluble vitamins to be transported and absorbed into the system.

Q. Can FibreNet and FibreNet Plus be taken together?

A. Yes, the two products serve different purposes in the body. FibreNet is an insoluble fibre. FibreNet Plus contains both insoluble and soluble forms of fibre and functions as an aid to normal digestion.

Q. What is calcium carbonate's purpose in FibreNet?

A. Calcium Carbonate is a tasteless, odourless powder that occurs naturally in limestone, marble and coral. It is a natural food additive that helps fill the capsule and help maintain the white colour of the product. Chitosan is a very fluffy fibre. The chitosan fills the capsules but can then be compacted down to make the capsule appear half full. The calcium carbonate is needed for the purpose of filling empty space. This amount will differ from batch to batch (but is generally around 25 mg) and is not needed in a free flowing form of chitosan like the FibreNet Plus. Calcium carbonate is a very safe food additive. We actually use calcium carbonate as one of our calcium sources in LifePak. FibreNet is very low in calcium carbonate and therefore does not provide a significant amount of calcium to the diet.