Help Support EcoWatch
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience while browsing it. By clicking 'Got It' you're accepting these terms.
Most recent
Trending
Top Videos
The best of EcoWatch, right in your inbox. Sign up for our email newsletter!
Aloe vera is commonly found in weight loss products, including herbal supplements, juices, and diet drinks. Sommai Larkjit / EyeEm / Getty Images
<p>Though it's most commonly used topically to heal burns and promote skin health, it has also been used to treat a variety of other conditions.</p><p>In recent years, it has even become a key ingredient in juices, herbal supplements, and diet drinks geared toward <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/weight-loss">weight loss</a>.</p><p>This article reviews the benefits and side effects of aloe vera for weight loss, as well as how to use it.</p>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from </em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/" target="_blank"><em>Healthline</em></a><em>. For detailed source information, please view the original article on </em><em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/aloe-vera-for-weight-loss" target="_blank">Healthline</a></em><em>.</em></p>
Potential Benefits
<p>There are two ways in which aloe vera may aid weight loss.</p><h4>May Boost Metabolism</h4><p>Some research shows that aloe vera could <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-ways-to-boost-metabolism" target="_blank">boost your metabolism</a>, increasing the number of calories you burn throughout the day to promote weight loss.</p><p>In one 90-day study, administering dried aloe vera gel to rats on a high fat diet reduced body fat accumulation by increasing the number of calories they burned.</p><p>Other animal research has shown that aloe vera could affect the metabolism of fat and sugar in the body while preventing the accumulation of belly fat.</p><p>Still, more studies are needed to determine whether aloe vera may offer similar health benefits in humans.</p><h4>May Support Blood Sugar Control</h4><p>Aloe vera may help improve <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar" target="_blank">blood sugar control</a>, which may help increase weight loss.</p><p>In one study, consuming capsules containing 300–500 mg of aloe vera twice daily significantly reduced blood sugar levels in 72 people with <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/prediabetes-diet" target="_blank">prediabetes</a>.</p><p>Another study in 136 people found that taking an aloe vera gel complex for 8 weeks reduced body weight and body fat, as well as improved the body's ability to use insulin, a hormone involved in blood sugar control.</p><p>Improving blood sugar control can prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which could prevent symptoms like increased hunger and cravings.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p><strong></strong>Aloe vera could help promote weight loss by boosting your metabolism and supporting better blood sugar control.</p>Side Effects
<p>Aloe vera intake has been associated with several adverse health effects.</p><p>Some of the most common side effects include digestive issues, such as diarrhea and stomach cramps.</p><p>While aloe vera can act as a <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/20-natural-laxatives" target="_blank">laxative</a> to help promote regularity, excessive use could increase your risk of adverse effects like dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.</p><p>It's important to note that while its laxative effects may reduce water retention, the resulting loss of water weight is only temporary and not a sustainable weight loss strategy.</p><p>What's more, since this succulent may reduce the absorption of certain medications, it's important to consult your healthcare professional before using it if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.</p><p>There is also concern about the cancer-causing effects of aloin, a compound found in non-decolorized, whole leaf aloe extract.</p><p>However, most aloin is removed during processing, so it's unclear whether commercial aloe vera products may also be harmful.</p><p>Furthermore, it's important to avoid eating aloe vera skin gels and products, as they may contain ingredients and additives that should not be ingested.</p><p>Finally, products containing aloe vera latex, a substance found within the leaves of the aloe vera plant, have been banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to safety concerns.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p>Aloe vera intake can cause several side effects and may decrease the absorption of certain medications. Unprocessed and unrefined extracts may also contain aloin, which is a carcinogenic compound.</p>How to Use It
<p>Aloe vera leaves are comprised of three main parts — the skin, latex, and gel.</p><p>The gel is <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/can-you-eat-aloe-vera" target="_blank">safe to consume</a> and can be prepared by cutting the leaf in half and using a spoon or knife to scoop out the gel.</p><p>Be sure to wash the gel thoroughly to remove any dirt and latex residue, which can give the gel a bitter taste.</p><p>Try adding the gel into smoothies, shakes, salsas, and soups to bolster the health benefits of your favorite recipes.</p><p>You can also eat the skin of the aloe leaf by adding it to salads and stir-fries.</p><p>After slicing and washing the skin, you may also opt to soak the leaves for 10–30 minutes before adding them to your recipes to help soften them up.</p><h4>Summary</h4><p>The gel and leaves of the aloe vera plant can be consumed in a variety of recipes, including smoothies, soups, salsas, salads, and stir-fries. Always be sure to remove the latex layer.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>Aloe vera is commonly found in <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-lose-weight-as-fast-as-possible" target="_blank">weight loss</a> products, including herbal supplements, juices, and diet drinks.</p><p>It may help promote weight loss by boosting your metabolism and improving your blood sugar control.</p><p>However, it may also be associated with several adverse effects and should be used in moderation as part of a healthy diet.</p><p>If you decide to give aloe vera products a try, be sure to purchase them from a reputable supplier.</p>From Your Site Articles
- Can Moringa Powder Help You Lose Weight? - EcoWatch ›
- How to Lose Weight on a Vegetarian Diet - EcoWatch ›
Related Articles Around the Web
Read More
Show Less
These simple vegan breakfast recipes are going to revolutionize your morning routine. They each have just seven main ingredients, so you can whip together a veritable vegan feast that will keep you sated until lunch.
<p style="">From meatless bacon to quick chia pancakes, the recipes are healthful, packed with plant-based ingredients and free of items associated with animal suffering and the horrors of the <a href="https://www.peta.org/videos/meet-your-meat/" target="_blank">meat</a>, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/nondairy-alternative-milk-2538153111.html"></a><a href="https://www.peta.org/issues/animals-used-for-food/animals-used-food-factsheets/cows-milk-cruel-unhealthy-product/" target="_blank">dairy</a> and <a href="https://www.peta.org/features/egg-industry-cruelty/" target="_blank">egg industries</a>.</p><p>If you're new to making vegan meals, these simple recipes are a great way to start:</p><h4>1. <a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/7-ingredient-vegan-gluten-free-waffles/" target="_blank">Gluten-Free Waffles</a></h4><p>You're only seven ingredients away from devouring these <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/vegan-frozen-waffles-pancakes/" target="_blank">waffles</a>.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQyNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTkwMzYwOH0.W8S6hf2m4CHqvlYyUvnvnoK1eq8eA6sBStwnMKvI130/img.jpg?width=980" id="e053b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="552d1efb2a107e96fed5b3e129064b1f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/" target="_blank">© Minimalist Baker</a></small></p><h4>2. <a href="https://www.peta.org/recipes/avocado-toast-garbanzo-beans/" target="_blank">Avocado Toast With Garbanzo Beans</a></h4><p>Toast is the perfect breakfast item, but not by itself. This recipe features a special combination of avocados, cherry tomatoes and garbanzo beans to help make it a filling meal.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMDk3Njc5MX0.B2Pow8SxXn3Ljjxzw_X_W1qOPLRYALxxTmOIEZrdbyA/img.jpg?width=980" id="0aa10" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ba44279b51401feafe7be4bffc59f46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
</p><h4>3. <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2015/07/22/vegan-overnight-oats/" target="_blank">Blueberry-Strawberry Overnight Oats</a></h4><p>This delicious mix of oats, cinnamon, chia seeds, almond milk and vanilla extract will having you saying, "Oh my oats."</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQyOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNzA5MzYyNX0.NjjzmxL3oD0AZXycsf4CrQiU1frG9yOQeaQ5UBeILkY/img.jpg?width=980" id="d7737" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b8e18873b1c3e3a1234c7f004810ddbd" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://www.ohsheglows.com/" target="_blank">© Oh She Glows</a></small></p><h4>4. <a href="https://happyfoodhealthylife.com/vegan-breakfast-hash/" target="_blank">Breakfast Hash</a></h4><p>Nothing is more comforting than potatoes first thing in the morning. This hash is packed with breakfast "sausage," black beans and baby spinach.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQzMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNzYwMTI2Nn0.bFfcxDZkmlScisERdRnalJmjPfdBMr3ystslxgwd9Qk/img.jpg?width=980" id="e5c2a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d1f55bc6a4ded3b6f1b40997a31db669" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://happyfoodhealthylife.com/" target="_blank">© Happy Food Healthy Life</a></small></p><h4>5. <a href="https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2017/01/19/vegan-breakfast-sandwich-recipe/" target="_blank">Breakfast Sandwich</a></h4><p>This super-simple, soy-free breakfast sandwich includes a delicious white bean mash.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMzgzMDUyNX0.TpLnl5t7Hco_52KhiQ3RDpqnLJYpYGvwPOdaQJFBSvU/img.jpg?width=980" id="04e78" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="1a8d8b2a79bc3fc4458b98d042efed56" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/" target="_blank">© Chocolate Covered Katie</a></small></p><h4>6. <a href="http://runningonrealfood.com/vegan-chia-seed-pancakes/" target="_blank">Chia Seed Pancakes</a></h4><p>You'll definitely agree that these quick, fluffy pancakes are worth setting your alarm back just a touch.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQzOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0Njc2MzEzMn0.H2oVtGB7PT2Iw3tOgLFFSzVnQbrcOIaWhrO_LorfK68/img.jpg?width=980" id="4b44d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4d38b7af6de1815fda5f3fc4bdf4b670" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://runningonrealfood.com/vegan-chia-seed-pancakes/" target="_blank">© Running On Real Food</a></small></p><h4>7. <a href="https://simpleveganblog.com/vegan-breakfast-burritos/" target="_blank">Simple Breakfast Burrito</a></h4><p>This one's so simple, so quick and hearty enough to keep you full until lunch.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQzOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMjE2MTY4M30.yrgEigRyYf8JHlK__M4lJaHAfU0spGi_RlD1TL3hudE/img.jpg?width=980" id="9d898" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="683f4b32a602237e0f2a87568c86bc51" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://simpleveganblog.com/" target="_blank">© Simple Vegan Blog</a></small></p><h4>8. <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/5-summer-smoothie-recipes/" target="_blank">5 Simple Morning Smoothies</a></h4><p>Here are not just one, but five choices for easy <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/pump-workouts-vegan-protein-powder/" target="_blank">power smoothies</a>.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ0MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNDUwNTk0Nn0.IqbbDoX1Bicj0xhl6_5v2mAGUhuJT-x7n97Gv--pq6k/img.jpg?width=980" id="056f4" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0a957da51f96992c3494ca81d536eb79" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
</p><h4>9. <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/09/15/jumbo-chickpea-pancake-a-high-protein-filling-vegan-breakfast-or-lunch/" target="_blank">Jumbo Chickpea Pancake</a></h4><p>With salt and pepper, baking soda and garlic powder probably already in your kitchen, we figured that we could justify saying that this has "seven main ingredients" and squeeze it on the list. Adorn this delicious chickpea-flour pancake with goodies like salsa, avocado, hummus or cashew cream.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ0MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNTMyMzE4OX0.3ZULtxRJgjbXwE2DcF0uj6UKJeIyUagECijFDroIwhE/img.jpg?width=980" id="502d6" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c6acd6251ab31b334a2b76dab7ad3978" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/09/15/jumbo-chickpea-pancake-a-high-protein-filling-vegan-breakfast-or-lunch/" target="_blank">© Oh She Glows</a></small></p><h4>10. <a href="http://thegoodfoodgoddess.com/mango-raspberry-acai-bowl-vegan-raw-paleo-sugar-free/" target="_blank">Mango and Raspberry Açaí Bowl</a></h4><p>Want your breakfast to taste like ice cream? We thought so. Simply blend frozen banana, mango and frozen raspberries with almond milk and açaí powder, which comes from Brazil's antioxidant-rich super-fruit.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ0NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MTY2MTczM30.mSceSwB2fhfWo2zDiMvCqol_OmmfXk8GDdZFQ3ki8bE/img.jpg?width=980" id="e578c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b7760f8d7c92c7a2755ab32f7d113e0c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://thegoodfoodgoddess.com/" target="_blank">© The Goodfood Goddess</a></small></p><h4>11. <a href="http://www.ilovevegan.com/scrambled-tofu-breakfast-wrap-a-delicious-breakfast-to-take-on-the-go/" target="_blank">Scrambled Tofu Breakfast Wrap</a></h4><p>You're going to want to make this as soon as you see how easy it is.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ1My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NzM5Njc4M30.M4g94WON8_Dy-Vd5ud1V6nKcaqZfDHhye917u038F8o/img.jpg?width=980" id="6fc5d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c68195acec068fbbc30f7dccd5e0f92b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://www.ilovevegan.com/scrambled-tofu-breakfast-wrap-a-delicious-breakfast-to-take-on-the-go/" target="_blank">© I Love Vegan</a></small></p><h4>12. <a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/dark-chocolate-quinoa-breakfast-bowl/" target="_blank">Dark Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl</a></h4><p>Chocolate and quinoa? You'd better believe it.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ1NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyODMzNzY5Nn0.RF0P4d048aDqFrzhEzx4hsQ_kbYGDTe1MDE2w9v6OLI/img.jpg?width=980" id="a622a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="fbeb4a1349668ab7ac39d53708a93e65" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/dark-chocolate-quinoa-breakfast-bowl/" target="_blank">© Miminalist Baker</a></small></p><h4>13. <a href="http://www.runningwithspoons.com/2015/04/10/banana-oat-baked-french-toast/#_a5y_p=4102674" target="_blank">Single-Serving Banana Oat Baked French Toast</a></h4><p>Nut butter, banana, almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon and vanilla extract round out the sumptuous flavors of this vegan French toast.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ1OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMzgzNjIzOH0.flCJuSwE69EZIz-FYZVcoaRT9KXl1J_yrhTORIEIQtM/img.jpg?width=980" id="edf33" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c7a3b39c39c95efe52d1eed4aa9f920e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="http://www.runningwithspoons.com/" target="_blank">© Running With Spoons</a></small></p><h4>14. <a href="https://simpleveganblog.com/tempeh-bacon/" target="_blank">Tempeh Bacon</a></h4><p>For a classic breakfast, pair this vegan bacon with a <a href="https://www.peta2.com/recipes/super-quick-tofu-scramble/" target="_blank">60 Second Tofu Scramble</a> or <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/follow-your-heart-veganegg-recipe-ideas/" target="_blank">VeganEgg</a>. Add toast to round out the perfect plate.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xNzQxNDQ2MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MDk4MjI3MH0.QZa_y4ZuK0QEZ62HUNktglbzZkm4mwoqGPv7Nq6kzdI/img.jpg?width=980" id="5a1c3" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ab493f0bc35382b272c59ab4daf728a3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit..."><a href="https://simpleveganblog.com/" target="_blank">© Simple Vegan Blog</a></small></p><h4>Go Vegan!</h4><p>Interested in going vegan but haven't yet made the switch? Our free <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/free-vegan-starter-kit/" target="_blank">vegan starter kit</a> can help you.</p>
From Your Site Articles
Related Articles Around the Web
Read More
Show Less