Benefits of Aloe Vera

 

Aloe Vera: Nutritional Facts, Benefits, Weight Loss, and Side Effects

Today, aloe vera is primarily known to treat sunburn, but did you know that the gel inside of the aloe vera plant can be used for different health ailments? Aloe vera gel can be used directly from the plant, it can be consumed in the form of a juice, or it can be applied topically to the skin.

Nutritional Value Of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a very potent, medicinal plant. It has a whole array of uses for health and wellness and it’s all because of its extensive nutritional profile. 

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin C is essential for processes such as the formation of iron, immune system support, and maintenance of bones and teeth. Aloe vera contains a good amount of vitamin C (9.1 g for every 1 cup of aloe vera juice). 
Aloe vera also contains essential vitamins like vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin E, vitamin B12, folic acid (vitamin B) and choline. The plant also contains minerals, calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, and zinc. 

Enzymes

The plant is considered to be unique as it contains a number of beneficial enzymes that help break down sugars and fats. These enzymes, among others, include aliiase, amylase and lipase, which are vital enzymes in the digestion of starches and fats. 

Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is extremely hydrating and contains important vitamins and minerals, enzymes and fatty acids for optimal body function. Here are important benefits of using aloe vera: 

1. Treating Constipation

Constipation is not only uncomfortable, but it can have adverse effects on intestinal and digestive health. Aloe vera gel can be used as a natural laxative and help move bulk along the digestive tract. 
The latex or the part of the plant in between the skin and gel contains anthraquinones, which is a compound that is responsible for the laxative effect. If you are taking aloe vera gel for constipation, be sure to start with a small amount (8 oz or around 200ml juice) in order to allow your system to get used to the laxative effects. 

2. Staying Hydrated

Hydration is very important for overall health. Aloe vera juice is a great alternative to sugary drinks and fruit juices that can negatively affect your health. Aloe vera juice is low in sugar and calories and can thus be consumed directly or mixed with other juices and smoothies. 

3. Blood Sugar Regulation

Aloe vera has been proven to have “some” beneficial effects in improving conditions such as prediabetes and diabetes type 2. A study has shown that when subjects ingested aloe vera in liquid and powder form, it helped improve the regulation of blood sugar levels.

4. Prevents Stomach Ulcers

One of the biggest therapeutic benefits of aloe vera is through the treatment of digestive ailments. Stomach ulcers are painful sores in the stomach lining. They are usually easily healed, but can become severe if left untreated. Aloe vera gel is an anti-inflammatory substance which means it’s especially beneficial in treating internal lesions such as ulcers. It has been proven that aloe vera gel, if consumed on a regular basis, helps to heal the lining of the stomach and to reduce stomach ulcers. 

5. Improves Skin Health

Aloe vera gel is a water-based moisturizer that can have many positive effects on the skin. Collagen is an important protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. A study showed that when applied topically, aloe vera gel can actually increase collagen production of the skin. Aloe vera has also been known to improve skin conditions such as erythema (redness of the skin), and has some evidence of improving psoriasis. 

Aloe Vera and Weight Loss

An unhealthy gut is not helpful for those who want to lose weight. Aloe vera can be used as a digestive aid to assist in healthy digestion, metabolism, and excretion. The laxative properties of aloe vera ensures thorough digestion and reduces water retention. Aloe vera can help with both metabolic processes. The B-vitamins and enzymes in aloe vera make it excellent at burning fat. When actively losing weight, your body naturally goes into detox mode. Aloe vera contains a complex carbohydrate called acemannan which helps in the detoxifying process. That, combined with its laxative properties, is a great reason to consume aloe vera juice while detoxing. 

Side Effects of Aloe Vera

Even though aloe vera is considered safe enough for consumption, it’s not 100% safe for these reasons:

• Long term consumption of the latex of aloe vera has been known to cause effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, kidney issues, muscle weakness and arrhythmia.
• Consuming aloe vera gel containing latex while pregnant is not safe and if consumed over a long period, can be fatal. 
• Those with IBS, or other digestive disorders should exercise caution when consuming aloe vera gel with latex as it could worsen the condition. 
• The aloe vera gel itself may not be safe for those taking certain prescription medication and may cause interactions.