Aloe vera is a popular category, well known for its topical applications but more recently gaining popularity as a beverage, with brands of aloe vera drinks popping up in grocery and convenience stores throughout the country. Mainstream consumers may be vaguely aware of the health benefits of drinking aloe vera, intrigued by its presence beside their favorite organic iced teas, but the keen natural shopper understands the beverage does not necessarily provide the same benefits as its dietary supplement counterpart. Show However, even as a dietary supplement, the aloe vera question is not so cut and dry. Juice, gel or capsule? Inner fillet or whole leaf? These options can confuse potential customers. Here are some things to keep in mind when helping consumers choose the right aloe vera product. We’ll also review the evidence for its applications so that customers can understand why they should be taking aloe vera. Format Juice. Most aloe vera juices are made from the whole leaf — inner filet, aloe latex and all. Rinds and excess aloin found in the aloe latex is filtered out, reducing the aloin content, a powerful laxative, to its safe level of one part per million. Juices have a thinner consistency to gels, but they also differ functionally. The aloin content of the juices made from the whole leaf makes it more beneficial to those seeking to support digestive health. Juices and gels made only from the inner fillet will have nutrients that support health in different ways but their lack of aloin won’t do as much to support regularity. Capsules. You likely also stock your shelves with aloe vera capsules, which is another viable way to supplement with aloe. Some may simply not like the taste of aloe juice or gel, which are naturally bitter. While it is often recommended to mix the suggested dosage with another liquid, many may find capsules to be a simpler solution. The aloe vera extract in the capsule may also be accompanied by another valuable nutrient or herb, adding extra support. Digestive Health One in vitro study found that at a certain concentration, aloe vera juice promoted the growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei, made evident by a fall in pH and an increase in acidity (2). However, at much higher concentrations, growth was discouraged. Researchers concluded “Aloe vera juice or gel at a particular concentration could possibly be used in combination with probiotic Lactobacillus strain(s) as a combinational therapy for gastrointestinal disorders and cardiovascular diseases” (2). A different short term study investigated the antibacterial effect of aloe vera gel extract on Lactobacillus spp. and Streptococcus mutans. Results showed that aloe vera significantly reduced the number of Lactobacillus spp. but not Streptococcus mutans (3). A similar effect was observed in an in vitro study on the antibacterial activity of aloe vera on a bacterial strain of Helicobacter pylori, which is isolated to the Abruzzo region in Italy. Results of that study showed that inhibitory concentrations of aloe vera were comparable to those of bactericides, with 50% of detected strains inhibited in their growth (4). Considering the trending category of probiotics, aloe vera can be an excellent complement for shoppers of probiotic products in the way it may facilitate the growth of good bacteria and protect against harmful bacteria. Immune Health Much of its immunomodulatory effect is likely accomplished by controlling inflammation. Aloe vera gel for example downregulates lipopolysaccharides-induced inflammatory cytokine production (6). Antioxidants also play an important role in our health, scavenging free radicals that cause oxidation. Aloe vera is rich in antioxidants, including alpha-tocopherol, carotenoids, vitamin C, flavenoids and tannins (6). It should be noted that the whole leaf will provide the greatest concentration of antioxidants as the leaf’s skin has exhibited in vitro the most antioxidant activity. Blood Sugar It should be noted that not all studies are conclusive on the benefits of supplementing with aloe vera and the plant deserves and requires more, and better designed, randomized controlled trials to truly understand its potential. However, considering the research that does exist, and its traditional usage, aloe vera can be an excellent product for many customers if they understand what they are buying. This is where you come in. WF What is the difference between whole leaf and inner fillet aloe vera juice?A: Inner leaf has less anthraquinones which can cause a strong laxative effect. Both inner leaf and whole leaf have the same digestive benefits, but inner fillet will keep you from some unpleasant bowel side effects.
Which type of aloe vera juice is best?Barbadensis Miller is the most nutritious variety of aloe vera available. This juice is specially made from barbadensis miller juice and is enriched with 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids, and 200 specific compounds. It helps treat constipation and gastric issues and has antioxidant properties.
Is it OK to drink whole leaf aloe vera juice?Aloe latex or whole-leaf extract taken orally might be unsafe and is likely unsafe in high doses. Taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for several days can cause acute kidney failure and can be fatal. Aloe latex might also have the potential to cause cancer. Other side effects include abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
Is aloe vera inner gel fillet good for you?About Inner Fillet Aloe Vera Gel. Adding aloe gel into your regular health routine can help support good digestion, immunity, detoxification, nutrient absorption, skin health, and much more. Plus, with the addition of Aloesorb™, our aloe vera products can maximize the efficacy of those benefits.
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