In the weight loss world, Glucomannan is considered by many supplement companies as a bonus addition to their products because of its reported ability to help suppress the appetite.  That’s a bit odd coming from a product typically thought of as a colon-cleanser, but I’ve heard of stranger things.

They claim the same properties that make it such and effective colon cleanser also help it as a weight loss agent.  Glucommanan comes from the roots of the Konjac herb, which is native to places like Japan and China.

When glucomannan is ingested into the system, this soluble fiber acts as an absorbent, absorbing fats and other fluids to create a gel-like mass that helps transit the stool through the digestive tracks and then out of the colon.  But this gel-like mass we mentioned also has another function.  When that mass sits in the abdominal area, it sends signals back to the brain telling it that it’s full.  In this way, it acts like an appetite suppressant. It is also believed that when this absorption process occurs, some fats may be sucked into the gel, not allowing them to settle and turn into fat.

Glucommanan Research

There are several studies published that give credence to the above claims. According to one study, obese patients taking 1 gram of glucomannan with 8 ounces of water taken before eating each of the three main meals, resulted in an average weight loss of about 5.5 pounds.  That study was done over an 8-week period.

Another study I found, suggests that glucomannan taken at 2-4g per day does support weight loss and didn’t result in any negative side effects.  It should be noted that dieters with an esophagus defect should consult their doctor before taking glucomannan tables or pills because if the substance get stuck in that region it can expand and result in chocking.

The Bad

• In extreme cases, may result in choking
• Treatment typically used to treat constipation
• The sale of it has been banned in Australia

The Good

• Acts as an appetite suppressant
• Inexpensive
• Clinical research positive
• No major side-effects
• May also help fight high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes

The way we see Glucommanan

Research seems to prove that it can have positive results as a type of weight loss agent. Keep in mind, it is a soluble fiber and it is commonly used to treat constipation, so it might not be a bad idea to be near a bathroom when you first try it.  That said, it has worked as people have lost weight while on it, so it may be worth the shot. If nothing else, you certainly won’t be constipated while you’re trying to lose weight!