Along with diet and exercise, fiber supplements may be useful for weight loss. You might find it helpful to add Amorphophallus konjac root to your diet, although research results on the effectiveness of this vegetable fiber are conflicting. Consult a qualified health care provider before taking Amorphophallus konjac for weight loss.
Function
The stomach cannot digest fiber, so it travels through the digestive tract basically unchanged. Some types of fiber absorb fluid and create a feeling of fullness that can decrease appetite. Also known as glucomannan, Amorphophallus konjac can expand up to 17 times its original volume when placed in water, notes information at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center website. This property may make Amorphophallus konjac effective as a weight loss supplement.
Research
A study published in a 1984 issue of the "International Journal of Obesity" found that consuming 1 g of Amorphophallus konjac fiber three times per day was associated with a significant average weight loss during eight weeks in 20 obese participants. Although the weight loss was statistically significant, it was still modest, at 5 1/2 lbs. on average. Some studies have not found significant results with Amorphophallus konjac for weight loss, according to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Additional Benefits
Participants in the "International Journal of Obesity" study who were consuming Amorphophallus konjac fiber also experienced significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, known as the "bad" cholesterol. In addition, Amorphophallus konjac may decrease blood sugar levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you take medication to regulate your blood sugar, only use this fiber supplement with your doctor's supervision.
Usage
Amorphophallus konjac fiber supplements are available in various forms and under various brand names. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists a standard dosage of 1 g of glucomannan powder three times per day, taken one hour before each meal. The supplement must be taken with a full glass of water or other liquid to prevent it from sticking in the throat and expanding. This is particularly important when taking Amorphophallus konjac in tablet form. You may not be able to safely take this supplement in tablet form if you have difficulty swallowing, or a narrowing of the esophagus or anywhere else in the digestive tract. Consult a physician before using this supplement.
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