What is it
Glucomannan is a water-soluble plant fiber derived from the root of Amorphophallus konjac, a perennial herbaceous plant whose tuber contains on average almost two-thirds of the dry matter.
Glucomannan is chemically made up of chains of glucose and mannose that are not absorbed. Its use is linked to the Japanese food tradition.
Activity
Glucomannan extract is a granular powder characterized by high viscosity and the ability to swell, absorbing water up to 60 times its weight.
This property is even more pronounced in an acidic environment; For this reason, glucomannan in the stomach, turning into gelatin, promotes the sense of satiety.
It also counteracts the absorption of cholesterol and fats in general and slows down that of sugars. It is useful, therefore, in obese subjects and diabetics.
Why is it used
Glucomannan is widely used in the food industry as a gelling agent, thickener, emulsifier, stabilizer and soluble source of fiber.
It is found in baked goods, drinks, candies, soups, ready-made sauces and many other packaged and frozen foods.
Glucomannan is used to counteract the sense of hunger in weight loss diets and as an osmotic laxative.
How to use it
You should take at least 2-3 grams of micronized powder an hour before meals with plenty of water: glucomannan, in fact, begins to gel after a quarter of an hour reaching the peak volume after an hour.
After two hours it is found in the intestine, where it stimulates peristaltic activity.
Effects
Any side effects (diarrhoea, heaviness of the stomach) are mostly related to excessive intake. It can promote bloating and reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Precautions
Glucomannan should not be used in case of peptic ulcer or hiatal hernia. A high water supply is essential in order to achieve the pre-established goal: otherwise, in fact, a condition of constipation could paradoxically take over. It is good to always take it alone.
Interactions
Being a fiber, glucomannan can reduce the absorption of any drugs, retaining them. It is therefore good to consult your doctor about its opportunity for employment in case you have to follow chronic therapies.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.