Glucomannan Dangers

Glucomannan, (also referred to as Manna, Konjac, Konjac Fiber, Konnyaku) belongs to the Asian konjac plant family. The plant's vegetable-like fibers are extracted to make a dietary supplement that's used for various medicinal purposes, including weight loss; lowering blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure; reducing intestinal flora; and alleviating constipation. Conversely, glucomannan products marketed for therapeutic purposes are not FDA approved and a number of reports expose its potential danger.

Significance

• Although glucomannan is a key ingredient in various dietary supplements intended to promote weight loss, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged that that their misleading weight-loss claims violated federal laws.

Considerations

• According to the Drug Digest's data on glucomannan, tablets are not intended for oral use; and can cause blockage in the esophagus and throat swelling if administered in tablet form.

Safety Concerns

• Drugs.com notes the lack of information concerning the safety and effectiveness of glucomannan in women who are pregnant or lactating. Additionally, severe esophageal and GI obstruction has been reported by people taking glucomannan tablets and the hypoglycemic effects pose a critical threat to diabetics.

Side Effects

• The Physicians' Desktop Reference attributes the following side effects to glucomannan: skin irritations, hives, rash, swelling, breathing problems, chest pain, tightness in throat and chest, upset stomach, diarrhea, gas, nausea, vomiting, and blockage in the esophagus.

Warning

• Glucomannan is not easily absorbed by the body and creates a coat around the stomach and intestines, which can prevent the body from digesting other medications, supplements, vitamins and herbs.

Drug Interactions

• Glucomannan can have a lowering effect on blood sugar and increase the potency of drugs used to decrease a person's level of blood sugar. This includes drugs for diabetes like insulin, avandia, actos, byetta, diabeta, glucotrol, micronase and prandin.