Diet, Nutritional Supplements and Aloe Vera Juice

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Diet and Nutritional Supplements Based on Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera plants have many beneficial applications. As a nutritional supplement, it contains several vitamins and minerals and benefits the body in other ways.

Aloe Vera Consumption Options

Aloe Vera can be consumed in three different ways: juice, gel and pill form. It is recommended to buy a processed Aloe Vera product rather than buying a plant and taking a do-it-yourself path.

Although not listed as a toxin, unprocessed Aloe Vera can be dangerous to the body. Its leaves contain a substance known as aloin. This substance is an incredibly strong laxative and can produce dangerous medical problems if ingested. The Food and Drug Administration classified it as a class III ingredient in 2003 so its use is banned in the United States. Today, Aloe Vera consumer products are processed in a manner to remove the aloin.

Aloe Vera juice and pills are available in most grocery stores. The gel form is becoming increasingly available in specialty food stores as more and more molecular gastronomists take advantage of its properties.

Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe Vera juice is usually suggested as a digestive healer. Supporters and users of Aloe Vera juice point out that it prevents ulcers and helps regulate digestion particularly in the intestine. This aids in the absorption of nutrients from all foods and not just the Aloe Vera juice.

There is some evidence that it improves liver functions and there is anecdotal evidence of it helping to heal livers damaged by excessive alcohol intake.

The minerals and vitamins found in Aloe Vera juice include Vitamins A, C and E as well as calcium, enzymes and some amino acids. Some people have found that the nutrients in Aloe Vera help combat inflammation which aids in the mobility of joints.

Several studies have shown that Aloe Vera causes a decrease in blood glucose levels. This has prompted scientists to begin to further investigate its potential use in treating hyperglycemia.

It is usually suggested to drink 2 to 6 ounces of Aloe Vera juice per day to reap these benefits.

What are the Risks of Aloe Vera?

Most people do not like the taste of Aloe Vera juice and some may opt to take Aloe Vera in pill form. However, Aloe Vera does not have a strong taste so most people mix the Aloe Vera juice with a better tasting juice or with water to make it easier to drink.

As with anything, some people do suffer from side effects. These most often include abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Sometimes, these side effects can be stopped by lessening the amount of Aloe Vera juice being taken. However, if the side effects continue or are severe, it should be stopped immediately.

Anyone diagnosed with diabetes or hypoglycemia should speak to a doctor before starting any use of Aloe Vera as a dietary supplement due to its tendency to lower blood sugar levels.

Further research may find more benefits to Aloe Vera, but it is already showing itself to be a beneficial addition to any healthy lifestyle.