Glucomannan Powder: Benefits, Uses & FDA Status

Glucomannan is a dietary fiber. It is a food additive used to thicken and to make emulsions. Though there are claims that glucomannan has benefits for the health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved it for treatment.

Source

• Glucomannan is found in the roots of the konjac plant and it also appears naturally in certain wood.

Use

• Beyond its use to thicken and emulsify, glucomannan is the primary ingredient in products like shirataki noodles.

Health Benefits

• Glucomannan is thought to aid with constipation, obesity and cholesterol. Though there are some clinical studies supporting these benefits, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission has penalized companies selling glucomannan as a supplement.

Other Uses

• Glucomannan is also thought to help people with diabetes and acne, as well as alleviating high blood pressure.

Side Effects

• Besides intestinal distress from overuse, there have been no documented side effects from glucomannan use.