Konjac root contains the fiber glucomannan. That fiber soaks up water and swells in the stomach. This thickening action helps people feel full and supports regular digestion. The usual practice is to take konjac with a full glass of water before a meal to manage appetite.
When part of a balanced diet, konjac may also help maintain healthy blood sugar. The expanding fiber forms a gel that can slow how quickly the body absorbs carbohydrates and other nutrients.
Take konjac with plenty of liquid. An insufficient amount of fluid can cause the powder to swell in the throat and lead to choking. Its gel may interfere with the uptake of oral medications, so separate konjac from medicines by one to two hours. Anyone with a narrowed esophagus or difficulty swallowing should avoid konjac.