Evidence supporting the use of: Glucomannan
For the health condition: Weight Loss

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glucomannan, a soluble dietary fiber derived from the root of the konjac plant (Amorphophallus konjac), is used to support weight loss primarily on the basis of its physical properties and some scientific evidence. Its mechanism is thought to involve absorbing water in the digestive tract, thereby expanding to form a bulky fiber that promotes a feeling of fullness (satiety) and reduces overall calorie intake. Several randomized controlled trials have investigated glucomannan’s effects on body weight. A 2014 meta-analysis of clinical trials found that glucomannan supplementation led to a modest but statistically significant reduction in body weight compared to placebo, though the average weight loss was small (about 0.8-1 kg over 5 weeks). Some studies, however, have shown no significant effect.

While glucomannan is generally considered safe for healthy adults when taken with sufficient water, its overall impact on weight loss is modest and likely most effective when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise. The US FDA has not approved glucomannan as a weight loss drug, but recognizes it as a source of dietary fiber. In summary, there is some scientific validation for glucomannan’s use in weight loss, but the magnitude of its effect is limited, and the clinical relevance remains debatable. More high-quality, long-term studies are needed to establish its efficacy.

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