Konjac is a medicinal plant from Japan and Indonesia, whose roots are widely used as a home remedy for weight loss, however, it can also be used to treat problems such as high cholesterol or constipation.
These uses occur because of the fiber present in its roots, glucomannan, which is a type of nondigestible fiber that has the capacity to absorb up to 100 times its volume in water, forming a gelatinous mass that fills the stomach. In this way, it is possible to decrease the feeling of empty stomach and to increase the sensation of satiety, diminishing the appetite.
In addition, because it is a fiber, Konjac glucomannan is able to naturally eliminate high levels of cholesterol, as well as facilitates bowel functioning, avoiding constipation.
Price and where to buy
Konjac can usually be found in natural products stores or manipulating pharmacies in the form of capsules, with an average price of 30 reais for a box with 60 capsules.
However, it is also possible to find the konjac root in miojo form, known as miracle miojo, and which can replace the use of pasta in the kitchen. In this way, its price can vary between 40 and 300 reais.
How to use
The most used way to consume Konjac is in the form of capsules and in these cases it is recommended:
- Take 2 capsules with 1 glass of water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner for at least one month.
An interval of 2 hours should be observed between the taking of Konjac capsules and another medicinal product, as this may hinder absorption.
Already to use konjac in the form of miojo, one must add it in the normal recipes, replacing the pasta with konjac to reduce the number of carbohydrates. In any case, to ensure weight loss is advised to eat a balanced diet and spread on fats and carbohydrates, as well as doing regular exercise.
See our simple tips for losing weight without too much sacrifice.
Konjac side effects
The side effects of Konjac are rare, but gas, diarrhea and abdominal pain and blockages of the digestive system may occur, especially if large amounts of water are consumed after ingesting Konjac.
Who should not use
Konjac does not have contraindications, but diabetics should only use this supplement with their doctor's authorization, as there may be severe cases of hypoglycaemia.
