Glucomannan Benefits
Glucomannan is considered to be a dietary fiber that can be found in the cell walls of different plant species. It is used by Japanese for centuries and is also known as "the broom of the intestines".
Glucomannan is a form of soluble fiber that has beneficial effects on the organism. It can be used as a natural remedy against bowel problems for a cleansing effect, as a suppressant for hunger or to treat acne.
What is Glucomannan?
Glucomannan is a type of sugar obtained from the root of the konjac plant. It is used in alimentation as an additive due to its emulsifying and thickening properties.
Once ingested, glucomannan absorbs the water in your stomach and expands. This will provide a sense of fullness and will form a bulky form inside the body.
By attracting water, this additive will also lower the absorption of calories and carbohydrates, thus making the glucomannan a great supplement for weight loss.
What are the benefits of Glucomannan?
Studies and tests show that a daily intake of glucomannan will lead to weight loss, even without changing your diet or way of life.
Glucomannan provides a healthy bacterial flora meaning that it has good bacteria like bifidobacteria, total bacteria, and lactobacilli.
It ensures proper gastric motility and is often used as a natural remedy for constipation.
By having benefits over the gastrointestinal flora, it reduces the risk of colon cancer.
How to take it?
Under powder form
Glucomannan powder is a tasteless additive that can be added to smoothies or basically any other food. It also offers a thick consistency which can be a bonus effect.
As a powder tablet
Taken as a supplement, a glucomannan pill has the same benefit effect as mixed with food. Due to its form, it's easier to swallow, so it's more convenient.
From foods
It can be found as a type of noodles called shirataki noodles or "miracle noodles". They can be bought from Asian grocery stores, but keep in mind that they have a fishy smell, so rinse them with water before cooking them.
Some gummy candies or chews contain glucomannan and are available on the market.
Konjac-gel can be added to different dipping sauces, but it has a weird texture and it's an acquired taste.
Side-effects of glucomannan
Although glucomannan doesn't contain any chemicals or other drugs, it is not approved by the FDA. It's considered to be "likely safe", but a good hydration is a key. Under the form of pills or powder, taken as an appetite suppressant, glucomannan can have side effects.
It can affect your digestive system. Without enough water, glucomannan can lead to intestinal blockage and even shocking due to blocking your throat.
These rare cases occur especially when people have taken glucomannan as a powder tablet supplement. It is best to dilute it with water.
Glucomannan may also affect the blood glucose levels, so is advised that people who suffer from diabetes or hypoglycemia to consult a specialist before taking this supplement.
A glucomannan excess can lead to gas, bloating or a general discomfort.
