What are Shirataki Konjac Noodles

As you may guess from the name, shirataki noodles originated in Japan. They are made from the Konjac root, also called White Yam or Devil's Tongue. They have a gelatinous texture and are a good source of the dietary fiber Glucomannan.

To make the noodles, the Glucomannan fiber is extracted from the Konjac root and mixed with water and limewater. This creates a gelatinous substance called konnyaku which is made into noodle-like or rice-like substances.

The finished noodles are 97% water and 3% indigestible fiber, making it a zero calorie noodle.

These noodles have gained the nickname "Miracle Noodles," and are completely paleo and calorie-free.

They have virtually no taste on their own but have a slight fish-like smell when packaged wet. This is due to the water they are packaged in and can be easily rinsed off.

Are Shirataki Konjac Noodles Healthy

It would seem like a product like this is too good to be true, but Shirataki noodles live up to their hype.

These noodles are a high-fiber food yet have no calories and no carbohydrates. The Glucomannan fiber in the noodles is a type of viscous fiber (soluble fiber). This is similar to what is found in chia seeds why they can absorb up to 50 times their weight in water.

Prebiotics in Glucomannan Fiber

The viscous fiber in Shirataki noodles is known as a prebiotic, meaning that it is indigestible to humans. It provides no calories or nutrients to human cells, but nourishes good bacteria in the digestive system.

Glucomannan for Weight Loss

Shirataki products and other Glucomannan containing foods are sometimes recommended for weight loss. These foods are no-calorie and high-fiber and are recommended on various types of diets.

Glucomannan as a Resistant Starch

Glucomannan is a great source of resistant starch and an incredibly easy way to incorporate this into the diet.