Glucomannan (derived from the Asian konjac root), expands to up to 50 times its original volume when mixed with water, curbing hunger by filling the stomach. It delays digestion of carbohydrates and all other nutrients, and binds to bile acids, carrying them out of the body in feces, promping the body to convert more cholesterol into bile acids and thus lowering cholesterol and other fats. One or two grams are taken before meals. (after Muscle and Fitness Magazine, 2010