Glucomannan

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Botanical: Amorphophallus konjac (also known as Amorphophallus rivieri)
Family: Araceae (arum) - Arecaceae (palm)

Other common names: Konjac, Konjac Root, Snake Plant, Devil's Tongue, Doo Bulbs, Konjac Mannan, Corpse Flowers, Voodoo Lily, Snake Palm

Glucomannan is an all-natural, dietary source of 100% fiber obtained from the root of the Konjac plant in Asia.  And Glucomannan contains zero calories, so it's an excellent addition to a sensible weight loss program.  Additionally, this herb has been shown to help reduce cholesterol, relieve constipation and regulate blood sugar in several clinical studies.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber that is derived from the Konjac root.  Konjac is a perennial plant unique to Asia, and cultivated in Japan.   The fresh Konjac tuber contains an average of 13% dry matter, of which 70% is Glucomannan, and the remaining 30% is starch.  Glucomannan is a polysaccharide consisting of repeating units of beta-D-glucose and beta-D-mannose joined together in a chain.  Historically, Glucomannan has been used in traditional Asian foods such as noodles, tofu, and other food products. Konjac flour (made from the tubers) has been a healthy Japanese jelly called "konyaku" for over two centuries.  By expanding in the stomach, Glucomannan can be useful for people trying to lose weight.  Fiber-containing foods such as Oats are known to help reduce cholesterol, improve bowel functioning and assist in weight reduction by creating a feeling of fullness. However, many people have a hard time consuming enough fiber from food and turn to fiber supplements such as Guar Gum and Pectin to help fulfill their daily requirements and get that feeling of "fullness." Glucomannan offers a significant advantage over these other forms of fiber - much smaller doses are necessary to achieve optimum results.  When Glucomannan is placed in water, it can swell up to seventeen times its original volume. These qualities make it extremely effective and convenient as a fiber supplement.     Several small controlled studies have found Glucomannan to be effective for reducing total cholesterol levels in otherwise healthy adults.  Glucomannan reduced bad cholesterol (LDL) and, according to some studies, increased good cholesterol (HDL).  In addition, Glucomannan may improve other risk factors for heart disease, such as high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure.  Several studies have suggested that Glucomannan may also help the body to regulate blood sugar levels and, therefore, could be helpful in treating diabetes.  Additionally, Glucomannan might be helpful for individuals who experience episodes of low blood sugar.  In one double-blind study, participants showed significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, as compared to a placebo. In addition, their systolic blood pressure (the upper number in the blood pressure reading) was also reduced.  However, there was no significant increase in HDL cholesterol and no improvement in the ratio of LDL to HDL cholesterol in that study.  Another study of individuals with diabetes tested for the effectiveness of Glucomannan fiber-enriched biscuits against wheat bran biscuits for better blood sugar control, and while using the Glucomannan biscuits, people had a significant improvement in glucose control, as opposed to the wheat bran biscuits.  Other studies have also found evidence that Glucomannan can improve blood sugar control.  However, while this evidence is promising, more studies need to be performed before Glucomannan can be considered an effective support treatment for diabetes.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:

It is recommended that Glucomannan and other medications be taken at different times, as fiber interferes with the absorption of other medications. Taking Glucomannan may interfere with the actions of blood sugar medicines resulting in the return of symptoms otherwise controlled by prescription medicines; this includes any change in blood sugar control. Glucomannan may produce gas and diarrhea in some people, but these symptoms usually disappear after several days or with a reduction in dosage.  It is recommended that plenty of water be drunk with Glucomannan, as the fiber tends to expand and may cause breathing problems or lodging in the throat.  Taking Glucomannan supplements without adequate liquids may cause it to swell, and, in extreme cases, cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty swallowing. People with esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus) or any other narrowing or obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract should not take Glucomannan.

Capsule Information:
Our Glucomannan supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.