Shirataki Noodles Can Lose Weight. Myth or Fact?
Shirataki noodles are now becoming a topic of conversation in the culinary world, especially for those who are on a diet program. The reason is, these noodles are said to help you lose weight. So, how is the truth?
Shirataki noodles are made from plant root konjac or konnyaku has commonly grown in Japan, China, and several countries in Southeast Asia. Besides being processed into noodles, the roots of this plant are often made into tofu, snacks, rice substitutes, and traditional medicines.
Almost like rice noodles, the color of Shirataki noodles tends to be clear white with a chewy texture when it's been boiled. These noodles are often called "magic noodles" because they are believed to be able to lose weight and nourish the body.
Facts about Shirataki Noodles for Weight Loss
Shirataki noodles can actually help you lose weight. This is because the roots of the konjac plant are rich in glucomannan, a natural dietary fiber that can absorb large amounts of water.
In one study, consumption of glucomannan for 4–8 weeks has been shown to reduce about 1.5–2.5 kg of body weight. Even so, in this study, the respondents did not consume glucomannan in the form of Shirataki noodles, but rather supplements.
Shirataki noodles are only 97% water and 3% glucomannan, which makes them very low in calories. In addition, glucomannan can slow down the digestion of food in the body, so that the stomach will feel fuller for longer.
Glucomannan can also reduce levels of the hormone ghrelin, a hormone that is responsible for sending hunger signals to the brain so that your appetite can decrease. No wonder these noodles work wonders for those who want to lose weight.
Other Benefits of Shirataki Noodles
Besides helping you lose weight, Shirataki noodles can also improve your body's health. The following are some of the benefits of consuming Shirataki noodles that you can get:
Shirataki noodles contain a few simple carbohydrates which are often taboo for diabetics. In addition, the glucomannan in these noodles will also slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates from other foods, thereby preventing an increase in blood sugar levels.
This is evidenced by research on type 2 diabetics who consumed glucomannan for 3 weeks. As a result, the respondents' blood sugar levels were shown to have decreased.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Glucomannan can increase the elimination of cholesterol through feces so that less cholesterol will be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Some studies suggest that glucomannan can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 16 mg / dL and triglycerides by 11 mg / dL.
Maintain digestive health
Having digestive problems can certainly cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. To fix this, you can know regularly to eat shirataki noodles. The glucomannan in Shirataki noodles can also act as a prebiotic which can increase the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
By maintaining a balance of good bacteria, your intestines will always be protected from various digestive problems, such as constipation.
For those of you who are struggling to lose weight and have ideal body weight, you can regularly eat Shirataki noodles. Apart from being in the form of noodles, Shirataki can also be found in the form of rice.
However, in addition to consuming Shirataki noodles, you also need to consume other nutritious foods, especially protein sources. Don't forget to exercise regularly, drink lots of water, get enough rest, limit your consumption of fast food, and stop drinking alcoholic drinks.
If you still have questions regarding Shirataki noodles or other weight loss foods, consult your doctor. The doctor will give advice on how to lose weight according to your health condition.
Shirataki noodles are made from plant root konjac or konnyaku has commonly grown in Japan, China, and several countries in Southeast Asia. Besides being processed into noodles, the roots of this plant are often made into tofu, snacks, rice substitutes, and traditional medicines.
Almost like rice noodles, the color of Shirataki noodles tends to be clear white with a chewy texture when it's been boiled. These noodles are often called "magic noodles" because they are believed to be able to lose weight and nourish the body.
Facts about Shirataki Noodles for Weight Loss
Shirataki noodles can actually help you lose weight. This is because the roots of the konjac plant are rich in glucomannan, a natural dietary fiber that can absorb large amounts of water.
In one study, consumption of glucomannan for 4–8 weeks has been shown to reduce about 1.5–2.5 kg of body weight. Even so, in this study, the respondents did not consume glucomannan in the form of Shirataki noodles, but rather supplements.
Shirataki noodles are only 97% water and 3% glucomannan, which makes them very low in calories. In addition, glucomannan can slow down the digestion of food in the body, so that the stomach will feel fuller for longer.
Glucomannan can also reduce levels of the hormone ghrelin, a hormone that is responsible for sending hunger signals to the brain so that your appetite can decrease. No wonder these noodles work wonders for those who want to lose weight.
Other Benefits of Shirataki Noodles
Besides helping you lose weight, Shirataki noodles can also improve your body's health. The following are some of the benefits of consuming Shirataki noodles that you can get:
Reduce and prevent high blood sugar levels
Shirataki noodles contain a few simple carbohydrates which are often taboo for diabetics. In addition, the glucomannan in these noodles will also slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates from other foods, thereby preventing an increase in blood sugar levels.
This is evidenced by research on type 2 diabetics who consumed glucomannan for 3 weeks. As a result, the respondents' blood sugar levels were shown to have decreased.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Glucomannan can increase the elimination of cholesterol through feces so that less cholesterol will be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Some studies suggest that glucomannan can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 16 mg / dL and triglycerides by 11 mg / dL.
Maintain digestive health
Having digestive problems can certainly cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. To fix this, you can know regularly to eat shirataki noodles. The glucomannan in Shirataki noodles can also act as a prebiotic which can increase the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
By maintaining a balance of good bacteria, your intestines will always be protected from various digestive problems, such as constipation.
For those of you who are struggling to lose weight and have ideal body weight, you can regularly eat Shirataki noodles. Apart from being in the form of noodles, Shirataki can also be found in the form of rice.
However, in addition to consuming Shirataki noodles, you also need to consume other nutritious foods, especially protein sources. Don't forget to exercise regularly, drink lots of water, get enough rest, limit your consumption of fast food, and stop drinking alcoholic drinks.
If you still have questions regarding Shirataki noodles or other weight loss foods, consult your doctor. The doctor will give advice on how to lose weight according to your health condition.
