There are many products available today that claim they can help you shed extra pounds without diet or exercise modifications. Lipozene is one such product, and its manufacturers say it is clinically proven to reduce body fat with just one ingredient, glucomannan. Before starting to take Lipozene, or any diet pill, you should consult with your doctor.
Glucomannan
According to the University of Michigan, glucomannan is a natural fiber that comes from the konjac root, a plant that grows in Asia. Glucomannan is a water-soluble fiber, meaning it dissolves in water and becomes soft and gel-like in your intestines. It is not broken down until it reaches the large intestine, helping you to feel full longer. The manufacturers of Lipozene maintain that this feeling of fullness will help you to decrease your food intake, and thus lose weight.
Glucomannan's Effectiveness
Studies looking at glucomannan's effectiveness as a weight loss treatment have shown mixed results. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center reports one double-blind placebo-controlled study of 20 women who were 20 percent over their ideal weight found that the women lost an average of 5.5 lbs. in eight weeks while taking glucomannan supplements. However, other studies have reported no weight loss as a result of taking glucomannan supplements.
Considerations
Most side effects of Lipozene are consistent with eating a lot of fiber, such as gas, bloating and diarrhea. Known adverse reactions to glucomannan supplements also include chest pain, vomiting and difficulty swallowing or breathing. Health Canada reports glucomannan tablets should be taken with at least eight oz. of water or fluid to prevent choking and blockage of your throat, esophagus and intestine. You may decide to simply add more soluble fiber to your diet as an alternative to Lipozene. Do this by eating more oat bran, beans, peas and fruit.
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