Aloe in Water for Weight Loss

Of African origin, the aloe plant is a spiky, water-retaining plant which grows in arid conditions. The liquid inside, which is a viscous sap, is used in pure liquid form, gel form, and lotion form on the skin to heal minor surface cuts, scratches, and burns. It is also available in a drinkable liquid form, with some manufacturers of aloe beverages claiming that it can help with weight loss. Unfortunately, though the sap in aloe vera leaves are helpful regarding a number of minor injuries--and possibly a few illnesses--weight loss may not be within aloe's medicinal capability.

The Claims

• The argument for aloe as a weight loss stimulator usually revolves around supposed metabolism boosting properties within the plant. By boosting one's metabolism, calories burn at a faster rate--even when at rest--than they would normally. Supposedly, the metabolic rate in cells of the liver increase, leading to increased energy expenditure.

  Yet another claim made for aloe's power to influence weight loss involves the digestion of collagen proteins in aloe. Because protein requires more energy to digest, the theory goes, the body burns more calories supplying the energy needed for the body to digest the proteins, leading to weight loss.

No Conclusive Studies

• Well reasoned though all of this may sound, there have been absolutely no conclusive medical studies proving either of these theories in a satisfactory or definitive manner. It is possible that, at some point in the future, the claims made regarding aloe as a metabolism booster will be validated, but presently there is no supporting evidence.

  In the meantime, one tried and true way to boost one's metabolism is to exercise regularly and frequently. Doing so may not be as easy as simply drinking aloe sap mixed with water, but an exercise routine is guaranteed to have results if one is consistent over a prolonged period of time.

  Bottom line: There is no such thing as a "cure-all" weight loss supplement. Exercise combined with a calorie-restricted healthy diet is the only proven way to increase your metabolism.

Substantiated Benefits Of Aloe

• The good news regarding aloe is that there are a number of ways in which it is beneficial. It's an extremely effective healing substance when used for minor cuts, scratches, and first and second degree burns, sunburn, and inflammations of the skin, such as psoriasis and eczema. In drinkable form, it is helpful for difficulties of the digestive system, including ulcers and pains due to diverticulitis.