Preparation of Low Molecular Weight Glucomannan from A. Konjac K. Koch in Vietnam by Enzyme Catalyzed Hydrolysis Reaction and its Prospective use to Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Glucomannan is a water-soluble polysaccharide consisting of D-mannose and D-glucose units linked with β (1→ 4) glucosidic bonds, with the degree of branching of about 8% via β-1,3or β-1,6glucosidic linkages and the degree of acetylation of 5÷10%. Being a soluble fiber, low in energy, that acts as a sweeper to prevent cholesterol absorption into the bloodstream, glucomannan is used to lose weight, reduce blood cholesterol, blood fat and blood sugar with very few side effects [1,2].