Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The gel from the aloe vera plant is often used as a natural remedy for skin conditions, such as burns, sores, and rashes. Moreover, it is also sometimes used to treat constipation and other digestive issues. In recent times, aloe has become a popular weight loss smoothie ingredient. Many believe that aloe vera gel can help boost your metabolism and promote fat burning. Aloe vera smoothies are also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. But the question is, can aloe vera help you lose weight? Read on for everything you need to know about aloe vera and weight loss.
Aloe vera is a short, stemless plant that can reach up to four feet in height. The plant has thick, fleshy leaves that are green in color with white spots. The leaves of the aloe vera plant contain a clear gel-like substance. This substance is thought to have many health benefits (3).
Aloe gel contains 96% water, some organic and inorganic compounds, a type of polysaccharide called acemannan, and other substances (3).
There are three ways in which aloe vera is thought to aid weight loss, through possibly:
Your metabolism is the rate at which your body burns calories. A higher metabolism means that your body burns more calories– even at rest.
Some studies have found that aloe vera may help boost metabolism. In a study on rats that were on a high-fat diet, those that were given dried aloe vera gel had reduced body fat, suggesting an increase in their metabolic rate (1).
In a systematic review, the authors described studies in which aloe vera was found to affect the metabolism of fat and sugar and prevent the accumulation of belly fat (10).
Note that all studies on aloe vera and metabolism have been done on animals. More research is needed to see if aloe vera has the same effects in humans.
Another way in which aloe vera may promote weight loss is by reducing fat. Aloe vera gel is thought to block the absorption of fat in the gut.
In that study on rats that were fed a high-fat diet, those that were given aloe vera gel powder showed a reduction in body fat, both visceral and subcutaneous (1).
Another study found that aloe vera may help reduce the damage caused by fat stored in the liver. This is important because fatty liver disease can lead to serious health problems (6).
Note that all studies on aloe vera and fat reduction have been done on animals. More research is needed to see if aloe vera has the same effects in humans.
Read More: Benefits Of Kale Smoothie: Here’s What Drinking This Green Smoothie Can Do For You
Your blood sugar levels can affect your health. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, keeping your blood sugar under control is crucial for preventing complications.
Aloe vera may help support blood sugar control. In a study involving 72 people with prediabetes, consuming capsules containing 300 to 500mg of aloe vera daily resulted in lower blood sugar levels (12).
In another study, taking an aloe vera complex for eight weeks improved the body’s sensitivity to insulin and resulted in weight and body fat loss (15).
There are a few different ingredients that you can add to your aloe vera smoothie to boost its weight loss properties.
Adding in a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or almond milk, can help you feel fuller for longer (16). Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, such as raspberries, strawberries, and beets, can also help with weight loss (11).
Be wary of which sweetener you add to your smoothie. While honey and agave nectar are natural sugars, they can still add up in calories. If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can use a sugar-free alternative, such as stevia, or rely on the natural sweetness of the fruit.
If you’re looking for a delicious aloe vera smoothie recipe for weight loss, here are a few of our favorites:
Looking for an antioxidant-rich smoothie? This aloe, beet, and berry smoothie is perfect. The beets add fiber and nutrients, while the blueberries and raspberries are high in antioxidants.
If you’ve mustered up the courage to crush your weight loss goal, let Betterme take the sting out of this demanding process. Our app will help you restructure your habits, remold your life and crank up your fitness results!
This aloe smoothie is perfect if you’re looking for something soothing and healing. The aloe vera gel, turmeric, and ginger all have anti-inflammatory properties. The honey and lemon add a touch of sweetness.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love this tropical aloe smoothie. The pineapple and mango give it a sweet flavor, while the chia seeds add fiber and protein. The chilled coconut milk makes it a creamy, refreshing treat.
You can drink it any time. A protein-rich aloe vera smoothie can make a convenient breakfast on the go. It can also be a great post-workout or between-meal snack. However and whenever it best fits into your routine is perfect.
If you’re drinking an aloe vera smoothie for weight loss, be sure to include it in an overall healthy diet and try to add in some exercise. This will give you the most success in reaching your weight loss goals.
Read More: Matcha Smoothie Weight Loss Results: What Nutritionists Swear Will Happen
Spot reduction of fat is one of the biggest myths in the fitness world. You can’t target fat loss to one specific area of your body. To lose weight and flatten your stomach, you need to focus on overall fat loss.
To lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit. This means that you need to burn more calories than you consume each day.
There are two ways to do this:
This can be done by making healthier choices, such as choosing lean protein and vegetables instead of highly processed foods. You can also portion control your meals to make sure you’re not overeating (8). Don’t reduce your calorie intake too much in an attempt to speed up the process – this is likely to backfire in the long run and isn’t good for your health or nutritional status. Aim for a modest reduction of around 500 calories per day.
This can be done by adding more movement into your day, such as taking a brisk walk or going for a bike ride. You can also add in strength training to help build muscle and boost your metabolism (18).
In addition to making these lifestyle changes, you can also drink an aloe vera smoothie for weight loss. As we mentioned earlier, aloe vera might boost your metabolism and prevent fat storage. Even if it doesn’t, it can still be a delicious addition to a healthy diet.
When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, this plant might help you lose weight and flatten your stomach.
Reasons why BetterMe is a safe bet: a wide range of calorie-blasting workouts, finger-licking recipes, 24/7 support, challenges that’ll keep you on your best game, and that just scratches the surface! Start using our app and watch the magic happen.
Yes, you can drink aloe vera juice every day. There are many possible benefits of drinking aloe vera juice, including supporting weight loss, improving digestion, and reducing inflammation (3).
Start with a small amount of aloe vera juice and increase gradually as your body adjusts. It’s generally safe for most people to drink up to four ounces of aloe vera juice per day.
If you’re new to drinking aloe vera juice, it’s best to start slowly and increase your intake gradually. This will give your body time to adjust and will help you avoid any negative side effects.
When choosing an aloe vera juice, be sure to read the label carefully. Some aloe vera juices contain added sugar or other ingredients that you may not want. Choose an aloe vera juice that is 100% pure and that doesn’t have added sugar or artificial ingredients.
You can also make your own aloe vera juice at home. Simply cut open an aloe vera leaf and scoop out the gel. You can then add the aloe vera gel to a blender with water and blend until smooth.
Aside from weight loss, the gel of the succulent aloe vera plant has been said to have the following health benefits:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid flows back up the esophagus, irritating the throat and causing heartburn. Some people find that taking aloe vera gel orally can help to relieve their symptoms (9).
The plant’s low toxicity and lack of side effects also make it a good option for those looking for an alternative to conventional GERD treatments.
Aloe vera gel is often used as a natural remedy for skin conditions, such as burns, sunburn, psoriasis, and cold sores.
The gel has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to soothe the skin and speed up healing (17).
It is also thought to be hydrating and may help to reduce dryness, itchiness, and redness.
Aloe vera gel is also sometimes used to improve hair health. When applied to the scalp, it may reduce inflammation and prevent scalp dryness (14).
The gel’s antimicrobial properties may also help to keep the scalp healthy by combating dandruff-causing microbes.
Aloe vera gel is a source of vitamins A, C, and E– which are all important for immune system function.
The gel also contains polysaccharides, which are thought to stimulate the immune system (2).
Some people take aloe vera gel orally to help boost their immune system and ward off illnesses.
Aloe vera gel is often used as a natural treatment for constipation and other digestive issues.
The gel is thought to help promote regularity by stimulating bowel movements as it has a laxative effect (2).
While aloe vera is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects in some people. The most common side effect is diarrhea, which may be caused by the plant’s laxative effect.
Other potential side effects include stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting (4).
Aloe vera may also interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak to a doctor before taking it (4).
Aloe vera is safe for most people when used externally on the skin. However, the gel can still possibly trigger skin irritation in some people. It is also important to avoid using aloe vera on open wounds.
Adding an aloe vera smoothie to your diet may help you lose weight and improve your overall health. However, it is important to start slowly, then increase your intake gradually. Be sure to choose a 100% pure aloe vera gel with no added sugar or artificial ingredients. As always, talk to your doctor first, especially if you have any medical conditions or are on any medications.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not serve to address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for making any kind of decision-making. Any action taken as a direct or indirect result of the information in this article is entirely at your own risk and is your sole responsibility.
BetterMe, its content staff, and its medical advisors accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors, misstatements, inconsistencies, or omissions and specifically disclaim any liability, loss or risk, personal, professional or otherwise, which may be incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and/or application of any content.
You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or your specific situation. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of BetterMe content. If you suspect or think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor.