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Glucomannan
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Common names:
Konjac RootBotanical names:
Amorphophallus konjacGlucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber that is derived from konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). Like other forms of dietary fiber, glucomannan is considered a “bulk-forming laxative.” Glucomannan promotes a larger, bulkier stool that passes through the colon more easily and requires less pressure—and subsequently less straining—to expel.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Constipation | 3 to 4 grams daily in water, followed by a second glass of water | Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber that has shown to be effective as a bulk-forming laxative. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Cholesterol | 4 to 13 grams daily | Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber that has been shown to significantly reduce total blood cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and to raise HDL cholesterol. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Insulin Resistance Syndrome | 8 to 13 grams daily | Taking a glucomannan fiber supplement may improve blood cholesterol and blood sugar. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 2 Diabetes | 500 to 700 mg per 100 calories in the diet | Glucomannan delays stomach emptying, leading to more gradual sugar absorption and lower blood sugar levels after meals. |
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| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Childhood Obesity | 2 to 3 grams daily | Glucomannan, a type of fiber, dilutes calories, slows down the eating process, and may make people feel more full despite eating fewer calories. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Obesity | Adults: 3 to 4 grams daily; adolescents: 2 to 3 grams daily | Supplementing with glucomannan, a bulking agent, has promoted weight loss in overweight adults. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Diverticular Disease | Refer to label instructions | Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber. One study found that people with diverticular disease had reduced symptoms after taking glucommanan. |
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| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Hypoglycemia | Refer to label instructions | Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber. In one trial, adding glucomannan to a meal prevented hypoglycemia in adults with previous stomach surgery. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 1 Diabetes | Refer to label instructions | Glucomannan delays stomach emptying, leading to more gradual sugar absorption and possibly lowering insulin requirements for people with type 1 diabetes. |
| ||
Also indexed as:
- glucomannan
About this treatment
Common names:
Konjac RootBotanical names:
Amorphophallus konjacHow to Use It
The amount of glucomannan shown to be effective as a laxative is 3–4 grams per day. Effective amounts for lowering blood cholesterol have been 4–13 grams per day. For controlling blood sugar, 500–700 mg of glucomannan per 100 calories in the diet has been used successfully in controlled research. For weight loss, 1 to 3 grams before each meal has been effective. When using glucomannan and other dietary fiber supplements, it is best to start out with a small amount and increase gradually. It is recommended to drink at least 8 ounces of water each time any bulk-forming laxative, including glucomannan, is taken.
Where to Find It
Glucomannan is a purified fiber from konjac root that is available as a bulk powder to be taken in hard-gelatin capsules or used as an ingredient in food.
Possible Deficiencies
As glucomannan is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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