GLUCOMANNAN (KONJAC GUM)

WHAT IS GLUCOMANNAN?

A naturally occurring, water-soluble fibre called glucomannan, sometimes referred to as konjac, is obtained from the roots of the Southeast Asian plant known as elephant yam. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is used to cleanse the body and treat asthma-related symptoms. It is still used as a bulking agent in many different food products, such as noodles, tofu, and diet snacks. It is found on food labels as E425. Konjac is additionally offered as a form of powder and pill.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GLUCOMANNAN?

The benefits of Glucomannan (Konjac Gum) include:

• May aid in weight loss: Glucomannan, a soluble fibre, is connected with weight loss because it promotes satisfaction and generates a feeling of fullness. It decreases appetite, extends digestion, stabilises blood sugar levels after meals, and might even lessen fat absorption by absorbing water and producing a gel-like substance in the stomach. A research from the University of Tromso in Norway indicated that individuals who took glucomannan lost more weight than those who used other high-fiber supplements; nevertheless, a different study concluded that there was no significant difference in weight. Additional research is required because individual reactions could differ. To choose the best approach to achieving weight control objectives, it is recommended to consult with medical professionals.
• May lead to smooth digestion: Due to its sticky consistency, this dietary fibre can act as an appealing food source for some good bacteria in the stomach. The University of Reading’s 2010 laboratory study discovered that glucomannan supported bifidobacterium and other beneficial gut bacteria colonies at healthy levels. To properly comprehend the effect on intestinal bacteria, however, more research with human participants is required. In addition, like all dietary fibres, this ingredient can aid in decreasing constipation by increasing volume and quickening the rate at which food moves through the colon. Glucomannan may provide advantages above weight loss by promoting healthy digestion and the development of good gut bacteria.
• May reduce blood sugar: It has been suggested that glucomannan may help with blood sugar regulation. Studies have shown that it can reduce the rate at which glucose is absorbed from the digestive system, leading to better glycemic control. In a type 2 diabetes-related randomised controlled experiment, glucomannan significantly lowered fasting blood glucose levels. Another study found that healthy people who took glucomannan supplements experienced less post-meal blood glucose rise. While these results are encouraging, more studies are required to fully comprehend the degree of glucomannan’s advantages for controlling blood sugar. For personalised advice, people with diabetes or impaired blood sugar regulation should speak with healthcare specialists.

Even though glucomannan may help with blood sugar regulation, digestive health, and weight management, it is vital to proceed with caution and take into account your specific needs. The existing study offers encouraging insights, but more research is required to completely comprehend its efficacy and long-term effects. Before adding this supplement to a diet, it is crucial to seek medical advice, especially for people who have certain medical conditions or are on some medications.

HOW DOES GLUCOMANNAN WORK IN HUMAN BODY?

When consumed, glucomannan expands in the stomach when ingested with water; this sensation of fullness suppresses hunger. This was shown in a randomised controlled trial in which overweight and obese participants supplemented with glucomannan experienced much less hunger and more sensations of fullness. The capacity of glucomannan to put off stomach emptying is another mechanism. As seen in a study where it improved the duration of fullness and decreased future meal intake, glucomannan helps extend the feeling of fullness and reduce calorie consumption by reducing the frequency at which food leaves the stomach.

Additionally, glucomannan may help control blood sugar levels. Its gel-like substance, which is generated in the digestive tract, can slow down carbohydrate absorption and metabolism, causing glucose to be released into the bloodstream more gradually. According to a study on people with type 2 diabetes, taking glucomannan supplements dramatically lowered blood sugar levels after meals. These methods shed light on the processes through which glucomannan increases satiety, suppresses appetite, and controls blood sugar levels. Individual reactions, however, may differ, and more investigation is required to completely comprehend the intricate mechanisms of action of glucomannan.

HOW MUCH GLUCOMANNAN CAN A PERSON TAKE?

Depending on a person’s needs and medical conditions, glucomannan dosages may vary. It is typically advised to adhere to the recommendations made by recognised healthcare organisations or seek advice from a doctor or other healthcare professional. The usual dosages are 2 to 4 grammes per day, divided into several portions, and taken with enough water to avoid choking risks or stomach discomfort. The effects of various glucomannan dosages on weight loss in overweight and obese people were examined in a study that was published in the journal Obesity. A low-dose group (1 gramme per day), a medium-dose group (3 grammes per day), and a high-dose group (4 grammes per day) were formed from the participants.

According to the study, all three groups lost weight significantly, however the medium and high dose groups had lower body weight and BMI values than the low dose group. Another study looked at how this fiber affected children’s constipation. One group of individuals took 1 gramme of glucomannan daily, while the other received a placebo. The participants were split into two distinct groups. The study discovered that the constipation symptoms in the group consuming glucomannan improved. Individual responses to this supplement might vary, so it’s crucial to keep in mind that you should start with smaller doses and progressively raise them as needed.

In order to avoid any digestive problems or blockages when taking this ingredient, it is also essential to drink a lot of water. In this situation, however, consult your healthcare practitioner or physician to check the appropriate dosage for you based on your unique medical history (if any). Any overdose could result in consequences and health issues.

WHAT ARE THE VARIATIONS OF GLUCOMANNAN?

Note that GLUCOMANNAN is also known as:

• Konjac Glucomannan 70% (Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Glucomannan 80% (Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Glucomannan 90% (Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Glucomannan 95% SO2<10ppm (Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Glucomannan HBD085 95% SO2<10ppm(Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Gum (Amorphophallus konjac)
• Konjac Phytoceramides 0.1% Powder (Amorphophallus konjac)

Glucomannan is commonly available as:

• Glucomannan (Konjac Gum) Tablets
• Glucomannan (Konjac Gum) Capsules
• Glucomannan (Konjac Gum) Powder
• Glucomannan drink

Glentworth Formulations is here to suit your every need. Everything from Tablets, Capsules and Powder blends.

If you are wanting to know more information, please get in contact with us. Either using the contact form or contacting us directly on: enquiries@glentworthformulations.com.