Propolene

Written by: Ellen R. Delisio

Propolene capsules' main ingredient is Propol or glucomannan, a natural fiber extracted from the Konjac root, a Japanese plant. The Konjac root also is called amorphophallus konjac, Devil's Tongue, Elephant-foot Yam, Konjac Mannan, Konnyaku and Snake Plant. Other ingredients in the capsules are microcrystalline cellulose, gelatin, stearic acid and magnesium stearate.

The Konjac plant is related to the yam, and provides all-natural, water soluble fiber for the diet without any calories. The Japanese consider Konjac a health food, and include it in several traditional dishes. Glucomanann has been cited for its weight-loss benefits, because when taken with water, it can swell up to 50 times its original volume, causing people to feel full and eat less. It also has been noted for its use as a laxative, and effectiveness in reducing high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Glucomanann also may slow the absorption of carbohydrates into the system, which also can help lower blood sugar levels. Some believe it also protects the body from chronic illnesses and can relieve stress on the pancreas.

Some researchers say it is safer and more effective to take glucomanann in powder form as opposed to capsules. Either way it is ingested, it is critical to take glucomanann with a large amount of water.

Not everyone, though, agrees with all the benefits attributed to glucomanann. In one study done in 1980, a group of people took a gram of glucomanann before meals, while a second group was given a placebo. Both groups participated in a weight-loss program and both lost weight. But those who took the glucomanann did not experience additional weight loss or report feeling significantly less hungry.

Glucomanann is considered safe for most people when used as recommended, but at the same time, should not be relied on as the sole means of losing weight, according to some sources.