Aloe Vera’s Amazing Effect On Blood Sugar
If you were a citizen of the ancient world and developed symptoms of diabetes your physician might have “prescribed” aloe vera.
Today, scientists are confirming that aloe vera, a succulent plant producing the clear gel we use for burns, cuts, and nasty skin conditions, also helps lower blood sugar.
Aloe and Blood Sugar
Researchers at the David Grant USAF Medical Center, for instance, analyzed the finding of nine aloe studies. They found that oral aloe vera lowered fasting glucose levels in diabetics by 46mg/dL, and reduced their A1C readings by 1.05 percent. Aloe was especially effective with those who had fasting glucose levels over 200 milligrams a day.
Studies published in the journal Nutrients, and the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders reported similar glucose-lowering findings, and research also indicates aloe may help alleviate abnormal lipid profiles, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The glucose lowering power of aloe vera comes from among the 75 active ingredients found in the plant’s outer “rind” and inner gel. The active compounds include enzymes, salicylic acids, phytosterols, saponins, antioxidants, and amino acids. Plus, aloe has beneficial bioactive trace elements such s zinc, manganese, chromium, and magnesium.
Use Aloe Wisely
To reap the advantages of aloe’s powerhouse components a variety of aloe vera supplements in juice or capsule form are available at many health food outlets. Or, after cutting off an aloe leaf’s tough outer layer, a small amount of the gel and translucent flesh can be blended with fruit juice to create a pre-breakfast, bowel-loosening tonic.
However, do not add aloe to your daily health regimen before checking its compatibility with any medications you are taking. Note that aloe juice, containing the leaf’s rind, is a strong laxative that might interfere with the absorption of some prescription drugs.
If you start taking aloe vera, it’s also important to monitor your blood sugar frequently to avoid hypoglycemia. You would be wise to work with your doctor or diabetes care team when adding aloe or any other nutritional supplement to your diabetes management routine.
Sources: Mercola; Natural News
Photo credit: robertivanc
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