7 Incredible Benefits of Glucomannan

by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) last updated -

The use of glucomannan has increased in recent decades, due to its many potential benefits, but there are also a few possible health risks to consider.

What is Glucomannan?

Glucomannan is a polysaccharide commonly isolated from various roots as a powder and used as a dietary supplement for various purposes. The most well-known source of this type of fiber is from the konjac plant, which is native to Southeast Asia. In that region, and in similar tropical locales, glucomannan powder has been in use for hundreds, if not thousands, of years in traditional medicine. Only since the 20th century, it gained popularity in America and Europe due to the potential benefits of this fibrous powder.

Close-up of a woman in gym clothes with a tape measure around her waist

Keeping track of your weight. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

It is often used as a thickener or binding agent and is appearing more and more frequently as an ingredient in certain foods. While anecdotal evidence points to a wide range of benefits from this powdered fiber, there are some contraindications. The FDA has not certified its use for any medicinal purposes, but other countries and natural healers strongly support its moderate and responsible use.

Glucomannan Benefits

The many possible health benefits of glucomannan include prebiotic effect, weight loss, regulating blood sugar levels, balancing thyroid activity, treating gastrointestinal disorders, and reducing cholesterol levels, among others.

Weight Loss

There have been many recent claims and products featuring glucomannan for the maintenance of weight, and while there is some debate over the efficacy, this addition of fiber to the diet can increase feelings of fullness. [1]

Constipation

Fiber is extremely important for overall gut health, but for constipation, it can start peristaltic motion and renew normal bowel function. [2]

High Cholesterol

Studies have found that supplementation with this fiber can lower overall cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can help prevent atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, and coronary heart disease. [3]

Gut Health

If you suffer from the leaky gut syndrome, ulcers, chronic inflammation or other gastrointestinal disorders, using this supplement is believed to be a natural and effective solution. [4]

Overactive Thyroid

If you have an overactive thyroid gland, it can wreak havoc on your body, leading to weight loss, fatigue, and various metabolic issues. This supplement can reduce thyroid hormone production and normalize your life. [5]

Prebiotic

This is considered a prebiotic, capable of improving the health of your microbiome by protecting beneficial bacteria. [6]

Glucomannan Dosage

Depending on what your health goals are, your daily dosage may shift, but generally speaking, you should take between 1 gram and 12 grams of this powdered supplement per day. Typically, very few side effects are registered or reported at dosages of under 5 grams per day. Before adding any powerful supplement to your diet, it is wise to speak with your doctor about potential complications with pre-existing conditions or medications.

Glucomannan Supplements

When it comes to the daily use of glucomannan, there aren’t many options besides taking a supplement of this powdered fiber, which can come in a capsule form or as a loose powder that can be added to water. However, it is very important to follow the instructions carefully, particularly if you are taking it in a powdered form. You need to ensure that you have enough water, as the powder can represent a choking hazard if too little water is consumed with it.

Glucomannan Side Effects

The major side effects of using glucomannan include the following:

  • Bleeding disorders
  • Stomach problems
  • Low blood sugar
  • Drug interactions and choking risk

Most of these problems occur if an excessive amount is taken, or if you are already taking blood-thinning or diabetic medications. This is a form of fiber, so it can affect your gut in many ways and may cause bloating, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation in some people. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are recommended to avoid this supplement.

DMCA.com Protection Status
About the Author

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, publisher and photographer with English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana (USA). He co-founded the literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and now serves as the Content Director for Stain’d Arts, a non-profit based in Denver, Colorado. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve.

Rate this article
Average rating 4.5 out of 5.0 based on 5 user(s).