The key to the success of any weight-loss regimen is to know how each element, from exercise and energy management to nutrition and food supplements all contribute to a healthy lifestyle, especially when you add something new.

A good example of this is understanding how high-fibre glucomannan powder can help in weight loss efforts; as with any other food supplement it is not just about its intrinsic qualities but how they are used.

The main component of shirataki noodles, glucomannan is a fibre found in the root of konjac plants that is notable for just how much water it absorbs and how full it makes people feel.

It is one of the most viscous edible fibres you can buy, and as many viral videos have shown, even a tiny amount of glucomannan can turn water into gel. It can notably absorb as much as 50 times its weight in water.

It works for weight loss in the same way as other soluble fibres; it is a low-calorie supplement that makes you feel full by taking up space in the stomach, reducing fat absorption and slowing down the emptying of the stomach.

It also helps to feed friendly good bacteria in your intestines, which has been connected to weight loss in some studies.

What makes it different is that viscosity. That thick gel helps make it particularly effective for weight loss even in comparison to other liquid fibre solutions commonly used in milkshakes and drinks powders to help with digestion and weight management.

However, just drinking it at any time may not have an effect on weight loss; it is best taken before any meal you take, with a guideline dose of one gramme of the powder three times a day, washed down with one or two glasses of water.

This is because the glucomannan gel forms a layer around food and slows the absorption of fats, sugars, protein, cholesterol and stomach acid.