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Supplements

Glucomannan and fiber supplements

Glucomannan is a soluble fiber from konjac root that swells with water and is sold for fullness; its effect on weight is small at best.

Clinician review pending Updated Supplements
DefinitionGlucomannan is a soluble fiber from konjac root that swells with water and is sold for fullness; its effect on weight is small at best.

What it means

Glucomannan absorbs many times its weight in water and forms a thick gel in the stomach, which may add to the feeling of fullness. It is sold as capsules, powders and konjac noodles.

Trials of glucomannan for weight loss are mixed. Some found small losses, others found little or no difference from placebo. It may help a little with cholesterol and regularity.

Psyllium husk is another soluble fiber. It is better known for easing constipation, a common side effect of GLP-1 medicines, than for weight loss.

Fiber supplements must be taken with plenty of water. Glucomannan in tablet form has been linked to choking and blockages in the throat or gut, and people with swallowing problems should avoid it. Fiber can also slow absorption of some medicines, so space doses apart as your pharmacist advises.

Why it matters

Fiber can help with fullness and constipation on a GLP-1 medicine, but it will not replace one.

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Sources

  1. NIH ODS: Dietary supplements for weight loss

Clinician review pending. Drafted from primary sources and waiting for sign-off by a licensed clinician (MD, DO or PharmD) before launch. Every number is checked against its source. Drug facts are re-checked quarterly, prices monthly and whenever a label changes. How we review · Report an error