Research indicates that soluble fibers help lower blood cholesterol, slow glucose absorption, lower the Glycemic index and promote regular bowel movements. Derived from Konjac root, glucomannan has an extraordinary water-holding capacity and is the most viscous of all known dietary fibers. Glucomannan offers benefits for those seeking to lose weight. Studies show that supplementing with glucomannan enhances the weight-loss effects of a calorie-restricted diet. Glucomannan may promote weight loss in obese adults, even in the absence of a calorie-restricted diet.
Glucomannan creates a feeling of satiety or fullness through its water-binding effects. By creating a thick gel, glucomannan delays gastric emptying and slows the release of sugar into the bloodstream, which helps to lower levels of insulin and blood glucose.
Additionally, glucomannan improves blood-lipid profiles and can lower systolic blood pressure. Because of these effects, glucomannan can greatly benefit individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes. Glucomannan is a dietary fiber that dissolves in water and comes from the root of the Konjac plant, As with most dietary fiber, glucomannan is an effective bulk-forming laxative, meaning that it stimulates the passing of larger stools which can move through the colon smoothly and is easier to eject.
Glucomannan works in a similar way to other water-soluble fibers. It is able to attach itself to bile acids in the gastrointestinal system and move them out of the body in the form of excrement.
This makes the body convert other cholesterol into bile acids, which can lower cholesterol and reduce the amount of other fats in the blood. Glucomannan could be effective as a weight loss aid because it takes up space in the stomach, which then simulates the sensation of being full. Like many soluble fibers, glucomannan can bind with a variety of substances in the digestive tract to slow digestion, relieve constipation and reduce the absorption of fat and carbohydrates.
Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Glucomannan is a substance extracted from the root of the konjac plant Amorphophallus konjac native to Asia. Glucomannan is rich in soluble fiber , the type of fiber that attracts water and helps soften stools. Long used in traditional Chinese medicine, glucomannan is now sold as a dietary supplement and weight loss aid.
The herbal remedy is made from the yam-like tubers of the konjac plant. The tubers, commonly referred to as elephant yams, are used in Japanese kitchens to make yam cakes konnyaku and noodles shirataki. Konjac is also known as own as devil's tongue, voodoo lily, and snake palm. In traditional Chinese medicine, konjac flour is used to make a herbal medication known as hongqu. As a soluble fiber, glucomannan works by building bulk in the intestines. This not only helps relieves constipation, but it can also slow the absorption of sugar and cholesterol from the gut.
In alternative medicine, glucomannan has a long history of use as a "detox aid. Glucomannan is also believed to promote weight loss, slow the aging process, and even fight certain forms of cancer.
Some of these claims are better supported by research than others. Here is a look at some of the key findings:.
Glucomannan may help keep cholesterol levels in check, suggests a review of studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Based on a review of 14 clinical trials, glucomannan appeared to lower total cholesterol and "bad" low-density lipoprotein LDL cholesterol. On the other hand, it did nothing to improve "good" high-density lipoprotein HDL cholesterol or blood pressure. The quality of reviewed studies was moderate to poor. Further research is needed to establish whether glucomannan is a safe and viable treatment option for hyperlipidemia high cholesterol.
Soluble fiber of any sort can help maintain or improve digestion. Most health authorities recommend a total dietary fiber intake of 25 to 30 grams per day with about one-fourth—6 to 8 grams—coming from soluble fiber. Glucomannan is a reasonable option, particularly if you have chronic constipation. It also appears to be safe for short-term use in children and pregnant women. A study in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care reported that glucomannan was more effective in relieving constipation than magnesium hydroxide used in Mylanta and Milk of Magnesia during the third trimester of pregnancy.
There is some contention as to whether the metabolic effects of glucomannan translate to weight loss. The results of clinical studies have been largely mixed.
A review of studies published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine concluded that glucomannan supplements, taken in 2- to 4-gram daily doses, increased weight loss in overweight or obese adults. Recent studies have not drawn similar conclusions.
Contrary to popular belief, glucomannan has less impact on blood sugar levels than expected. While it would fair to assume that this would slow the absorption of sugar glucose in the digestive tract, most research has shown that this doesn't occur. According to the study from Rush University, an eight-week course of glucomannan actually led to a slight increase in fasting blood glucose compared to placebo. Among study participants, any individual reversals were attributed to weight loss rather than the effects of glucomannan itself.
Other studies have shown that taking glucomannan supplements before a meal may provide a transient drop in blood glucose but had no demonstrable effect on insulin or HbA1c levels. Glucomannan supplements are generally considered safe if taken as prescribed but are intended only for short-term use only.
Little is known about their long-term safety. Common side effects include flatulence, diarrhea, belching, bloating, and stomach upset. Because glucomannan can absorb 50 times its weight in water, it is important that you take it with no less than 8 ounces of water.
Swallowing the supplement "dry" can lead to choking or the blockage of the esophagus or intestines. Although glucomannan is unlikely to affect your anti-cholesterol or anti-diabetes medications, it's important to speak with your doctor if you are on these drugs and intend to use glucomannan. Glucomannan powders, capsules, and tablets are widely available online and sold in many natural food stores and shops specializing in dietary supplements.
Most are formulated in doses ranging from to 2, milligrams. There are no guidelines directing the appropriate use of glucomannan supplements. Depending on the aims of treatment, dosages of up to 9 grams 9, milligrams per day, divided into three to four doses, are considered safe.
Always be sure to take each dose with at least 8 ounces milliliters of water. Work with your pediatrician to calculate the correct dosage. Dietary supplements are largely unregulated in the United States and can vary significantly from one brand to the next. To ensure quality and safety, opt for supplements that have been tested by an independent certifying body like the U.
Also, keep an eye out for brands that have been certified organic under the regulations of the U. Department of Agriculture. This will ensure greater purity and safety.
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