What is glucomannan?

Glucomannan is a soluble fibre derived from the roots of the konjac plant. Highly viscous, it forms a gel when it comes into contact with water in the stomach, which gives konjac the properties we mentioned earlier, such as its appetite-suppressing effect and the slowing of digestion. It is therefore glucomannan that is responsible for the benefits of konjac.

• High Absorption Capacity: The fibres in konjac, known as glucomannans, can absorb up to 100 times their weight in water, helping you feel full faster and for longer. This also slows down the passage of food through the digestive tract and the absorption of nutrients, which further contributes to its satiating effect. Discover the vegetables highest in fibre.

• Increased satiety and appetite-suppressing effect: By absorbing a large amount of water in the stomach, glucomannan forms a gel. Because this gel takes up space in the stomach, it increases the feeling of fullness, thereby reducing appetite and limiting food intake, which has an effect on weight. Discover 6 natural appetite suppressants.

• Weight loss: By reducing calorie intake and promoting a feeling of fullness, Konjac contributes to weight loss as part of a healthy lifestyle.

• Regulation of blood sugar and cholesterol levels: Konjac can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) by binding to it in the intestine and promoting its elimination. It does the same for sugar, slowing its absorption into the bloodstream. Learn how to do a sugar detox.

• Improved digestive health: It promotes bowel movements by adding bulk to stools and can relieve certain digestive issues by preventing constipation.

To learn more about its benefits, see our feature The Benefits of Konjac

Spotlight on our Organic Konjac Dietary Supplement

Our product is made from a Konjac extract standardised to 88% glucomannan, the fibre naturally found in konjac that gives it its appetite-suppressing properties. By swelling in the stomach upon contact with water, this fiber creates a longer-lasting feeling of fullness. This helps you stay satisfied between meals, control snack cravings and hunger pangs, all without feeling deprived. This dietary supplement is therefore a real help for managing your weight or losing a few pounds more quickly and stress-free.

Glucomannan does not cause weight loss per se, in that it does not lead to increased calorie expenditure —which is directly responsible for weight loss. However, it does indirectly promote weight loss thanks to its appetite-suppressing effect and its ability to absorb some of the sugars and fats we consume, which are then directly eliminated.

Discover how to lose weight fast.

Glucomannan is a useful supplement for weight management, provided it is part of a healthy lifestyle: a balanced and varied diet rich in nutrients, regular physical activity, and—if necessary—relaxation techniques; effective emotional management leads to healthier eating habits. 

Foods containing glucomannan can be consumed regularly, as a supplement to other foods. However, it is important to ensure they do not replace these other foods, as glucomannan has no nutritional value—that is, it does not provide our bodies with the vitamins and minerals essential for proper functioning.  

It is recommended to take dietary supplements in the form of short courses lasting a few weeks, and to take breaks between each course.

When?

As a supplement to a low-calorie weight-loss diet to make it easier to follow, without frustration, and to be able to maintain it for as long as necessary to reach your weight goals.

As part of a dietary rebalancing plan, implemented for medical reasons or simply to feel better in your body and take care of your health in the long term. Because weight affects certain chronic conditions, but also because glucomannan can have a positive effect on blood sugar and cholesterol, two risk factors for chronic diseases.

How?

Glucomannan pasta: There are pastas made from konjac, which allow you to consume a food that is particularly high in fibre and has appetite-suppressing effects. It should be noted, however, that it is flavourless and is best served with a tomato sauce rich in herbs and spices to add flavour while maintaining its lightness.

Konnyaku: Flavourless, this food is cut into cubes and incorporated into more flavourful dishes made with vegetables, herbs, spices, and aromatic oils to absorb their flavours. It can also be used to thicken sauces.

Glucomannan powder can replace flour in certain recipes, making them lighter. After mixing it with the other ingredients, allow it time to absorb enough liquid to achieve the desired consistency. It also adds texture to culinary preparations.

Dietary supplements—whether in powder or capsule form—generally contain higher doses of glucomannan, making them more effective than foods. They also allow you to continue eating regular foods while feeling full more quickly. Learn how to follow a regimen with an appetite-suppressing dietary supplement.

Dosage

There is no specific recommended daily intake for glucomannan-based foods. Dietary needs can vary depending on factors such as your gender, age, weight, and level of physical activity... It is recommended to start with small portions and adjust them gradually based on your appetite and needs. 

For dietary supplements, it is advisable to follow the instructions on the packaging, as each brand may have its own dosage recommendations.

Almond Protein Powder: Rich in amino acids, it is both filling and delicious. It is ideal for making healthy baked goods with appetite-suppressing properties.

Hemp Protein powder: Its high protein content and mild nutty flavour are the main advantages of this powder, which is used to make beverages (smoothies, shakes) and high-protein health bars.

Oat Protein powder: In addition to their impressive protein content, they contain fibre that aids digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. Perfect for making drinks and cakes that are as delicious as they are good for your body.

Organic Fat-Binding Dietary Supplement: Made with fibre-rich Nopal, it promotes weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing the absorption of fats and sugars. 

1. Take the appetite-suppressing dietary supplement a few minutes before breakfast and before each meal, accompanied by a large glass of water.

2. Drink enough water to allow the konjac to swell properly in the stomach and thus fully perform its role as a natural appetite suppressant.

3. Adopt a balanced diet rich in satisfying proteins and plant-based foods that contain fibre and micronutrients essential for good health, as Konjac does not contain any nutrients.

4. Drink slimming herbal teas made from diuretic and fat-burning plants, such as Mate or green tea.

5. Engage in moderate, regular physical activity, which helps burn more calories during exercise and also afterward thanks to a more muscular body that requires more energy.

Take some time for yourself every day to better manage stress and emotions, which helps prevent you from compensating for your unhappiness by overeating. To do this, it is recommended to turn to relaxing activities such as yoga, meditation or sophrology.

Appetite-suppressing dietary supplements are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or those with swallowing difficulties.

It is recommended to take them separately from any natural or medicinal treatments due to the absorbent properties of most of them, and to seek medical advice.

Natural appetite suppressants are a valuable aid for losing a few pounds or managing your weight. However, it’s important to note that significant weight loss requires a comprehensive, personalised weight-loss program, which necessitates the assistance of a nutrition professional. Regular physical activity and effective emotional management are also essential components of a healthy lifestyle, which is key to maintaining weight control and avoiding the "yo-yo effect" often seen with certain diets.

After completing a master’s degree in management, Christine spent 20 years working for leading companies in the food supplement and natural cosmetics sectors. She then turned her passion for nature into a career. Today she practises naturopathy for people and animals, as well as sophrology, and mentors aspiring naturopaths and sophrologists at various schools.