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Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber made from the stem of the konjac plant. The supplement helps to delay gastric emptying time, to encourage satiety and to slow the digestive system so you feel fuller longer. Glucomannan also helps improve lipid profiles, which can help raise your good cholesterol levels and lower triglyceride levels. Because glucomannan swells as it absorbs water, it is also useful as a laxative. Although the Food and Drug Administration has approved glucomannan as a meat binder and food additive, it has not been validated as a weight-loss aid or medical treatment. Talk to your doctor before trying any new medication or supplement -- especially if you have a chronic medical condition.

Add 1 gram of glucomannan powder to your favorite food or drink three times a day before each meal. Glucomannan powder mixes well in foods like oatmeal, yogurt and sauces -- as well as almost every type of beverage. Use the powder form of glucomannan rather than the pill form to reduce your risk of intestinal or esophageal blockage.

Eat food products that are made from glucomannan such as shirataki noodles. Boil the noodles according to the direction on the package and eat with your favorite pasta sauce and veggies. You can also find glucomannan gummy candies and chews at health food stores.

Drink 8 ounces of water with your glucomannan no matter which form you prefer. The fiber in glucommanan can block your digestive system if you do not drink enough water with it.

Take glucomannan powder or eat food made from glucomannan at least 15 minutes before your regular meal to help prevent alterations in your blood sugar levels.

Tip

Although glucomannan comes in a convenient tablet form, the solid tablet is more likely to cause blockages in the intestine and throat.

Warning

Glucomannan can cause minor gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, flatulence and diarrhea. Do not take glucomannan without consulting your doctor if you have diabetes -- the supplement can lower blood sugar levels. Because of the risk of gastric and esophageal blockage, glucomannan is not recommended for people with gut or esophagus abnormalities or diseases.