According to medical experts, supplementation of Aloe Vera can help to improve blood sugar control in diabetes patients. Further studies also showed that Aloe Vera can benefit patients at pre-diabetes stage.
What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a type of succulent plant used as herbal treatment for thousands of years now. It is an ingredient for a multitude of products ranging from personal care, skin care, beauty to food and beverages .
The leaves of Aloe Vera contain approximately 75 active substances which range from vitamins, minerals, enzymes, anthraquinones, monosaccharide, polysaccharides, lignin, saponins, salicylic acids, phytosterols, and amino acids. Many of these nutrients can help in blood sugar control. For instance, minerals such as chromium, magnesium, manganese, and zinc aid in increasing effectiveness of insulin thereby improving blood sugar metabolism.
However, previous studies yielded mixed results regarding the effectiveness of the plant when it comes to treating diabetes.
How Does Aloe Vera Help In Blood Sugar Control?
In order to further evaluate the effectiveness of aloe vera in treating diabetes, some researchers conducted a meta-analysis. They analyzed various data from different studies. These studies consist of eight random clinical trials involving approximately 500 people that have either Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes.
The study found that those with Type 2 Diabetes showed reduced HbA1c levels with the aloe vera supplementation. Their fasting plasma glucose level were also lowered slightly. For those with pre-diabetes, aloe vera supplementation did not decrease their HbA1c level. However, it did reduce their fasting glucose level. Further studies are needed in order to better quantify the beneficial effects of aloe vera in treating diabetes.
You can consume aloe vera by simply eating the flesh of the leaves. You can add it into yogurt or blend into your smoothie. Aloe vera supplements come in pill or concentrated juice form. Talk to your doctor if you have plans to take aloe vera supplements.
