Konjak has several potential health benefits
Konjak has several potential health benefits. These benefits are related to its high content of glucomannan, a naturally occurring soluble dietary fiber found in konjak plants.
The following section will discuss in detail these potential health benefits.
Constipation
Taking glucomannan supplements can help regulate intestinal motility and prevent constipation.
A 2017 review found that taking glucomannan can improve the frequency of bowel movements in children with constipation.
However, researchers also found that taking glucomannan does not always improve the consistency of feces or the overall success rate of treatment.
A study in 2018 also showed that supplementing with glucomannan can improve constipation symptoms during pregnancy. According to reports, glucomannan increased the frequency of stools and improved their consistency.
Healthy skin
The content of glucomannan can also help people improve skin health.
For example, a 2013 study found that glucomannan can serve as a local treatment for acne and improve overall skin health.
Wound healing
In addition to supporting skin health, glucomannan can also help the body heal wounds faster.
A 2015 mouse study found that glucomannan supplements may promote wound healing by supporting the immune system. However, more research is needed to conclude that glucomannan has the same effect on the human body.
How to use konjak
konjak glucomannan dietary supplements are available in most health food stores. The exact dosage of konjak that a person should take depends on the reason for taking it, as well as their age and overall health status.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate konjak supplements, so it is crucial to purchase from reputable retailers. Supplement manufacturers can voluntarily submit their products to an independent laboratory for purity and efficacy testing, so please refer to the information on the label.
In vegetarianism, people sometimes use konjak flour instead of seafood. Some manufacturers also use konjak to make facial sponges for those who wish to utilize the health benefits of konjak on their skin.
Other konjak products include:
jelly
flour
Noodle
Risks and precautions
When a person eats konjak in the form of jelly, there may be a risk of suffocation, especially for children. This is because it absorbs a large amount of water and is not easily soluble. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly chew konjak jelly to ensure smooth swallowing.
In fact, the European Union and Australia have banned konjak jelly because it poses a risk of suffocation.
Konjak supplements can also affect blood sugar levels, so patients with diabetes should consult their doctors before taking them.
Others may experience diarrhea when taking konjak supplements. This is due to the impact of konjak on the intestines and the way it reduces constipation. Another way to reduce constipation is to drink plenty of water.
konjak products may be beneficial for health. For example, they can lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, improve skin and intestinal health, help heal wounds, and promote weight loss.
Like any unregulated dietary supplement, it is best to consult a doctor before taking konjak. Before giving children konjak to treat constipation or other health issues, it is also important to discuss it with a doctor.
When consuming konjak, it should be consumed together with water to avoid suffocation.
