Konjac Powder Contains Glucomannan—-A Super Fiber for Weight Loss

Konjac, also known as glucomannan, is an herb that grows in parts of Asia. It’s known for its starchy corm, a tuber-like part of the stem that grows underground. The corm is used to make a rich source of soluble dietary fiber.

Glucomannan made from konjac may be beneficial for people who are looking to lose weight.

A 2005 study found that the soluble dietary fiber supplement helped people with overweight reduce their body weight. The participants took the supplement as part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet.

However, one 2014 meta-analysis found that there was no benefit of using glucomannan versus a placebo for weight loss. Also, side effects of the fiber supplement included abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and constipation.

Glucomannan may help a person feel full for longer by slowing the rate at which the digestive system empties.

Researchers compared the effects of the glucomannan supplement with those of a guar gum supplement. They found that the glucomannan supplement slightly increased weight loss, whereas the guar gum supplement did not.

However, other research found that konjac did not promote weight loss or significantly alter body composition, change feelings of hunger or fullness, or improve lipids or blood glucose parameters, even though the participants seemed to tolerate the supplement well.

Having high cholesterol increases a person’s risk of heart disease and stroke. Doctors recommend water-soluble fiber to support healthy cholesterol levels and weight management.

A 2019 study in rats with diabetes found that administering konjac glucomannan significantly reduced total cholesterol levels, as well as low-density lipoprotein. This is known as “bad” cholesterol.

A study from 2017 investigated what dosage of glucomannan would be needed to improve cholesterol levels. Researchers found 3 grams per day to be beneficial.

The glucomannan content may also help people looking to improve the health of their skin.

For example, a 2013 study found that glucomannan may provide benefits as a topical therapy for acne, as well as improve overall skin health.

As well as supporting skin health, glucomannan may also help the body heal wounds more quickly.

One 2015 study in mice found that glucomannan supplements might encourage wound healing by supporting the immune system. However, more research is necessary to conclude that glucomannan has the same effect in humans.

Konjac products may have health benefits. For example, they may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, improve skin and gut health, help heal wounds, and promote weight loss.

As with any unregulated dietary supplement, it is best to speak to a doctor before taking konjac. A person should also discuss konjac with a doctor before giving it to a child for constipation or other health concerns.