GLUCOMANNAN 90% (AMORPHOPHALLUS KONJAC)(TUBER)

Glucomannan is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the root, or corm, of the konjac plant (Amorphophallus konjac), native to Asia. This natural polysaccharide is renowned for its exceptional water-absorbing capacity, capable of absorbing up to 50 times its weight in water, forming a viscous gel. This unique characteristic is attributed to its molecular structure, a linear chain of D-mannose and D-glucose units linked by β-1,4 glycosidic bonds. Historically, konjac has been a staple in traditional Asian cuisine and medicine for centuries, valued for its purported health properties, particularly in digestive health. The 90% standardization ensures a high concentration of this active component, making it a potent ingredient for various supplement applications. Its physical properties, including its high viscosity and gelling ability, are central to its physiological effects upon ingestion.

The primary health benefits of glucomannan are largely mediated by its properties as a soluble, fermentable fiber. Upon consumption, it forms a bulky gel in the digestive tract, which contributes to feelings of satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing caloric intake. Research indicates that this viscous gel can slow down gastric emptying and nutrient absorption, leading to a more gradual rise in post-prandial blood glucose levels. A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that glucomannan significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Furthermore, as a fermentable fiber, it acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which are crucial for maintaining gut barrier integrity and supporting overall gut health, according to studies in Gut Microbes.

Glucomannan 90% is a versatile ingredient widely incorporated into dietary supplement formulations targeting weight management, cardiovascular health, and digestive support. It is commonly found in powder form for drink mixes, capsules, or pressed into tablets, often combined with other fiber sources or thermogenic compounds. Ensuring a high-quality glucomannan involves rigorous testing for purity, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants, alongside verification of its polysaccharide content and molecular weight, which influences its viscosity. Clinical studies, such as those published in the Journal of Obesity, have demonstrated its efficacy in promoting weight loss in overweight and obese individuals when combined with a calorie-restricted diet. Its mechanism of action in reducing cholesterol is thought to involve increased fecal excretion of bile acids, thereby requiring the liver to synthesize more bile acids from cholesterol. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also recognized glucomannan's contribution to weight loss and maintenance of normal blood cholesterol concentrations.