The origins of konjac
The first written traces of konjac cultivation date back more than 2,000 years in Chinese texts. It was then in the 6th century AD that this plant appeared in Japan.
The konjac (or “Armorphophalus konjac“) is cultivated and used for therapeutic purposes in Asia. Still not widespread in France, it is nevertheless increasingly appreciated.
It is a plant that comes in the form of a spherical tuberous rhizome and can weigh up to 4 kilos! What does it contain? Starch, glucomannan, water and vitamin B6.
What are the virtues of konjac?
As we have pointed out, konjac is very effective in weight loss. Why how ? Once ingested, it has the particularity of swelling in the stomach and increasing satiety. Even if it is useful, konjac is neither a miracle product nor a “slimming secret”. It should be used as part of a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Another virtue is that of regulating transit, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. For example, people suffering from stool evacuation problems can turn to konjac. The latter has the advantage of being rich in fiber, but does not upset the intestinal balance.
Finally, konjac offers an energizing effect thanks to the presence of vitamin B6.
Indications and use of konjac
Konjac exists in several forms:
- Vermicelli, which is the best known and most widespread aspect. Prepared from the rhizome, they can be eaten as a replacement for white rice and other pasta. This product, easily found in supermarkets, contains only 3 calories per 100g. It also exists in the form of tagliatelle and rice.
- Flour, which is a cooking aid. It is a thickener that can be used to cook creams, fillings, stuffings, etc.
- Capsules, which should be taken with a glass of water.
- The powder, which is rarer, but offers the same appetite suppressant effect. Again, just dilute 1 to 3 grams of this powder in a glass of water and drink it 20 minutes before meals.
Contraindications of konjac
Before consuming konjac, several precautions should be taken.
If you suffer from an obstruction of the digestive tract, avoid using this herb.
If you are undergoing medical treatment, do not hesitate to speak to your doctor about your desire to start a konjac treatment. He or she will be able to tell you the dosage to follow. A delay of 3 hours is recommended between taking a drug and taking a konjac supplement.
In general, it is essential to respect the recommended dosages and to take short-term cures. Too much can cause bloating and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach.