How to Use Aloe Vera for Weight Loss

Taking an aloe vera gel complex for eight weeks may help with weight loss in people who are obese or pre-diabetic, according to a study published in Nutrition in September 2013. The Center for Science in the Public Interest doesn't recommend internal use of aloe, however, because of the potential for serious adverse effects. Speak with your doctor before using any aloe vera product internally.

Potential Risks
Consuming aloe vera gel is safer than consuming aloe vera latex, but not all products specify which parts of the aloe plant are included. Aloe latex can cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, blood in the urine, kidney problems, muscle weakness, low potassium and heart disturbances. Aloe may lower blood sugar levels and can make intestinal conditions or hemorrhoids worse. It can interact with medications, including blood thinners, laxatives, diuretics and diabetes medications. Taking aloe internally may also increase your risk for hepatitis and cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

A Healthier Alternative
Make diet and lifestyle changes in a healthier way to lose weight. Increase your physical activity levels and eat fewer calories. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign recommends filling up on vegetables, fruits, lean protein and whole grains and limiting the amount of refined grains, desserts, fatty foods and sweets you eat so that you get all the nutrients you need while consuming fewer calories. You need to create a deficit of 500 to 1,000 calories per day to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week, which is a healthy rate of weight loss.

Side Effects of Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera is a popular medicinal plant for internal use. It is well-known for its ability to eliminate common gastrointestinal problems and shows promise in treating type-2 diabetes. While commercial aloe products have no known side effects, unprocessed aloe vera juice is associated with some risks.

What is Aloin?
Aloin is a stimulant laxative found in unprocessed aloe vera. It has been banned from commerical aloe products, including aloe juice, since 2002.

Dehydration Dangers
Aloin can overstimulate the bowels, leading to abdominal cramps, severe diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.

Aloin and Pregnancy
Pregnant women are advised against eating or drinking aloin-containing aloe vera juice, since it may stimulate uterine contractions, triggering miscarriage or preterm labor.

Commercial Aloe Juice
All aloe vera juice purchased in the United States has been refined to eliminate aloin. Aloin-free aloe vera juice is not associated with any known side effects.

Maintaining Safety
Because the laxative effects of natural aloe vera juice can be exceedingly harsh, consumers should avoid making aloe juice at home and instead purchase aloin-free varieties.