konjac

Konjac is a root vegetable native to parts of Asia and scientifically known as Amorphophallus konjac. The corm (tuber) of the plant is processed to produce glucomannan, a highly viscous soluble dietary fiber. Konjac and its derivative glucomannan are used in traditional medicine and as food products (such as shirataki noodles). In Western countries, it is primarily marketed as a dietary supplement for lowering cholesterol, improving carbohydrate metabolism (including blood sugar control), aiding weight loss by promoting satiety and fullness, relieving constipation by bulking stool and acting as a prebiotic for gut health. Mechanistically, glucomannan absorbs water in the digestive tract to form a gel-like mass that slows gastric emptying and nutrient absorption. This can help regulate blood glucose levels after meals and reduce cholesterol absorption. There is evidence supporting its use for constipation relief, modest weight loss when combined with calorie restriction, lowering LDL cholesterol/triglycerides/total cholesterol levels in people with or without diabetes or hyperlipidemia; it may also have benefits for skin health and possibly other conditions such as high blood pressure or atopic diseases[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].

Brand names

LipozenePGX

Other names

Amorphophallus konjacglucomannankonnyakukonjac mannangonyak