These Magical Noodles Are Insanely Low in Carbs and Have Almost No Calories

Konjac—the noodles’ main ingredient—is not new and has been used as a food and medicine throughout Asia for millennia.

Shirataki noodles. Ingrid Balabanova/Shutterstock

Lately, articles and social media posts have appeared featuring shirataki noodles—extolling their virtues for those looking to lose weight and improve their health. The buzz is understandable, as these noodles seem to possess preternatural qualities: They are high in fiber, very low in carbs, and gluten-free, and have no fat and practically no calories.

Michaela Pretzl, a certified nutrition coach, says the glucomannan in konjac supports digestion, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Konjac: An Ancient Food and Medicine

Shirataki noodles are made from konjac, which has recently gained popularity in nutrition circles for its role in weight loss, cholesterol management, and digestive health. But konjac is far from new. It has been a cooking and traditional medicine staple throughout Asia for millennia.