Why Is Konjac Root Banned in Australia?

Konjac is used as a thickening agent or gelatin substitute. However, its most well-known use is in the preparation of shirataki noodles or shirataki rice, which are low-calorie alternatives to these typically carb-heavy main courses.

Konjac is found in some parts of Asia and used as part of traditional Chinese medicine. It has become popular in the Western world for its use as a supplement forweight lossand managingcholesterol levels。

Glucomannan fiber dissolves in water and swells up in the gut, causing you to feel fuller, suppressing appetite, and slowing down the process of intestinal absorption.

Glucomannan may reduce total and low-density lipoproteincholesterollevels by increasing fecal excretion of cholesterol and bile acids and reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption.

Glucomannan can cause gastrointestinal problems such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Flatulence

Allergicreactions caused by glucomannan include:

• 困难breathing
• Increasedheartrate
• Swelling
• Skinrash
• Itching

Konjac contains short-chain carbohydrates calledFODMAPs。虽然在魔芋可发酵碳水化合物health benefits, some people may be unable to digest it. These carbohydrates are fermented in theintestinesand cause gastrointestinal problems such asgas,stomachache, andcramps。People withirritable bowel syndromeandinflammatory bowel diseaseare advised to avoid eating konjac and FODMAPs-rich foods.

Because glucomannan is a soluble fiber, it needs to be consumed with plenty of water and other liquids in order to reduce the risk of gut blockage and cramping. People who are not used to eating enough fiber in theirdietmay experienceflatulence,stomach pain, and bloating.

Glucomannan expands rapidly after absorbing water, and intake of an excess amount of glucomannan can lead to discomfort and prevents absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition. Moreover, it interferes with the absorption of medications and may worsen symptoms or illness.

Glucomannan also reduces bloodsugarlevels, so when taken withdiabetes medications, it may reduce bloodsugarlevels in the body that may be dangerous.

It is recommended to seek medical advice before taking glucomannansupplementsto prevent any serious health issues.