Glucomannan Side Effects-The Risk! Lately we've been hearing some people ask if there are any glucomannan side effects that they should be worried about. Though fiber supplements are generally considered safe, there are a couple of very important things to consider before taking glucomannan. But first, a short history. What is Glucomannan? Glucomannan is a type of fiber that has been soaring in popularity recently. Though the benefits of fiber are well known, glucomannan has shown significant advantages to other types of soluble fiber such as psyllium. Glucomannan fiber is extracted from the root of the konjac plant. This may explain why it’s better tolerated than psyllium, which is grain based. Health Benefits of Glucomannan While many people take a glucomannan supplement to alleviate constipation, science has proven many other health benefits as well. Others are including glucomannan into their diet through food sources such as Shirataki noodles. Cholesterol and Tryglycerides In a placebo controlled study, cholesterol levels in men were reduced by a significant amount, and tryglycerides were reduced by 26%. This may be due to bile binding effects, or the fact that glucomannan fiber slows the absorption of these lipids in the intestines. Type 2 Diabetes The use of a glucomannan supplement significantly reduced the fasting blood sugar as well as blood sugar spikes after meals in type 2 diabetics. The reason for this is that glucomannan is a soluble fiber. When mixed with water, a gel is formed which slows the absorption of starches and sugars. Weight Loss Several glucomannan weight loss studies have produced impressive results. A 16 week study reported that glucomannan supplements can aid weight loss. At the end of the study, the glucomannan fiber group lost 4.52 kg compared to .79 kg on average in the control group. The glucomannan group also reported reduced hunger. The reasons for this are simple, soluble fiber produces bulk, and slows food digestion. Constipation This is the most common use for a glucomannan supplement. Glucomannan is becoming the preferred supplement because it is effective, and better tolerated than psyllium husk. Healthy Bowel Flora Surely by now you’ve heard about the benefits of probiotics. But did you know that glucomannan is a prebiotic fiber. This means that it acts as a food source for the probiotic bacteria to multiply on it’s own, preventing a condition known as intestinal dysbiosis, also called dysbacteriosis. This can save you from a wide range of problems. Glucomannan Side Effects The only reported side effects from taking a glucomannan supplement include bloating, abdominal discomfort, gas, a feeling of nausea, feeling full, and diarrhea. It should be noted however that glucomannan supplements are better tolerated than other types of fiber including psyllium husk. An Important Warning! It has been recommended by Canadian health officials that a glucomannan supplement should be followed by 8 oz of water. This is because glucomannan (especially in a capsule form) will expand when mixed with water. This could cause a blockage of the esophagus or intestines. Though we can’t find any reported cases of this happening, you should definitely drink a large glass of water following your glucomannan supplement. This will make sure that it has been washed down to your stomach. Lots of water is also necessary for soluble fiber to do it’s job. Also, you should NOT take just before lying down. But what we must understand is that a glucomannan supplement is only one piece of the puzzle. We still must improve our diets, and a probiotic supplement is also very beneficial. Now that we’ve seen the list of glucomannan side effects and benefits, it’s up to us to make a decision. Are you interested in losing weight, controlling cholesterol or diabetes, or preventing a state of gut dysbiosis? We can invest in our health today, or pay the price later. It’s our responsibility, and ours alone. Im using a natural product and it has helped me with Weight loss and Diabetes Contact me if you'd like to know more! | 
