Organic glucomannan is a substance in the form of complex sugar and water-soluble fiber from the extract of konjac roots. China used this substance for the first time as a traditional herbal medicine. It also has a long history as a detoxification support in the country. Comes from konjac roots, glucomannan is contained in konjac or shirataki food, such as shirataki noodles and rice.
Most of you probably already know that shirataki is popular for weight loss. But glucomannan contains other health benefits, here they are.
Help to Lose Weight
This is one of the main benefits of glucomannan. This water-soluble fiber is effective in losing weight because it is low in calories and fills the stomach space so that you feel full for a longer time. And just like other types of fibers, glucomannan can also reduce the absorption of fat and proteins. Glucomannan also acts as food for good bacteria in the intestines.
Those good bacteria can turn the fiber into short chain fatty acids, such as butyrate. In animal studies, butyrate reportedly can prevent fat gain. This is supported by one study concluding that a group that took glucomannan supplements experienced more weight loss than another group that didn’t.
Relieve Constipation
The next health benefit of organic glucomannan is relieving constipation as it functions as a natural purgative. You can even consume this fiber to overcome chronic constipation. Water-soluble fibers like glucomannan are good for the digestive system. Our body needs at least 25 grams to 30 grams of fiber every day with 6 grams to 8 grams coming from soluble fibers.
And meeting your daily fiber needs can prevent constipation. Glucomannan can help to prevent constipation thanks to its prebiotic properties. This fiber has been proven to be able to stimulate the growth of lactobacilli and bifidobacterial in adults with constipation. The growth of those 2 bacteria can increase the bowel movement, relieving constipation.
Reduce Cholesterol and Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Glucomannan can bind bile acids and remove them from the body. A lot of studies stated that this fiber can lower HDL and LDL cholesterols, which can increase the risk of heart diseases. Glucomannan can specifically lower total cholesterol of 19.3 mg/dL, LDL cholesterol of 16 mg/dL, triglycerides of 11.1 mg/dL, and fasting blood sugar of 7.4 mg/dL.
Glucomannan has viscous nature that can form a layer around food, inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol and bile acids. This content is also effective for controlling blood sugar levels. Consuming glucomannan supplements is proven to be able to reduce the level of cholesterol and blood glucose in diabetics as well as healthy individuals.
This reduction is due to slower gastric emptying, causing a higher rate of nutrient absorption by the small intestines. This then boosts insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels.
Those are the health benefits of glucomannan. To enjoy those benefits, you can choose to take glucomannan supplements or consume konjac food like shirataki rice or shirataki noodles as shirataki contains organic glucomannan. Note that some people might be at risk of mild side effects of glucomannan, such as diarrhea and bloating, though these side effects rarely happen.
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