Unfortunately the Glucomannan powder gave me a stomach ache. I used it consistently for a week and followed the directions. The taste was ok 'tolerable' but my stomach ache was not, therefore I could no longer use the product. My overall experience with Zooscape was a positive one though and would order from them again in the future.

[Editor: First of all, we are sorry that your experience with glucomannan didn't quite go as expected. Let's see if we can't offer some insight into this problem.

An upset stomach is a rare, secondary side effect associated with glucomannan. Glucomannan may enhance the effects of certain diabetes medications, so side effects from hypoglycemia have been known to occur (although, an upset stomach is not one of them). For sure, if you are on diabetes medication, or any medication for that matter, make sure you inform your healthcare practitioner about glucomannan to make you aware of any adverse drug interactions.

Since it is a bulk-type laxative that coats the lining of the GI tract, in theory it could prevent the absorption of other medications or supplements. Whether this scenario could lead to an upset stomach is in the realm of possiblilty, but doesn't seem likely. There may be risk of an esopgageal blockage (due to the swelling nature of the herb) in capsule form; in powdered form, this is less likely. Either way, you must make sure that you are getting adequate water to maintain the softness of the bulk created, and that should facilitate an ease of movement through the intestinal tract. This may have been the source of your upset stomach, though we cannot say for sure. As with any bulk laxative, if the product expands in your GI tract without sufficient hydration, you've created an obvious source of discomfort and a resultant stomach ache.

You can lower the recommended dosage and see if you are achieving the same benefits without the stomach aches, or simply discontinue use. There are, typically, several herbs or supplements that accomplish the same thing, and it may be a matter of just finding what is best for you. But, don't forget to rule out any adverse drug or supplement interactions, as well as any other possible sources of the upset stomach. We're happy that your ZooScape experience was a happy one overall, and we certainly have enough of a variety of products to address your health needs without enduring an upset stomach.]

I decided to give Konjac Root a try after researching it on the web. To my knowledge there has never been a bad review about it and NO side effects. I have noticed some change in my condition but it is to early to make a decision as of yet. I will be placing another order on the 16th of this month for two more bottles. Thank you for the kindness of asking about me. Jim.