Aloe vera for weight loss: Here's why ghritkumari may help you shed kilos

The bright green cacti-like succulent plant of aloe vera doesn't need any introduction. Apart from finding a revered place in Ayurveda, it is also valued highly in the beauty and health industries. Ever since dietitians, beauty and health experts have started talking about the benefits of using and consuming aloe vera, the plant has started making an appearance in gardens and on window sills of houses all around the world. Known as ghritkumari in Hindi, the plant has millions of takers around the world and is used in the form of gels, cream and juices, due to the aloe vera's wondrous health benefits.

You may have read about the amazing health benefits of eating aloe vera, drinking its juice and also incorporating the gel in your beauty regime. But did you know that aloe vera may also help you in weight loss? The nutritionally dense plant also has some active compounds which may help you shed a few pounds, while also improving the quality of your skin and hair. It's usually consumed in the form of aloe vera juice, which is made by mixing the gel of the plant with water.

1. Detoxification: The aloe vera gel contains a complex carbohydrate known as acemannan, which facilitates the absorption of nutrients by the cells, nourishes them and also helps detoxify them. Aloe vera juice may help in detoxification of the digestive tract, especially the colon.

2. Boosts Metabolism: Aloe vera is believed to give a boost to the metabolism, which helps the body burn more fat. Aloe vera's metabolism boosting properties are credited to the presence of vitamin B, which converts the fat stored in the body into energy and aids weight loss.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Aloe vera is believed to be full of antioxidants, which fight inflammation in the body. Although antioxidants and weight loss may not have any direct scientific link, foods that are rich in antioxidants are often also found to promote weight loss.

4. Aids Digestion: Aloe vera has laxative properties and when consumed in small quantities may aid digestion. An unhealthy gut or poor digestive health is often linked to weight gain. A healthy digestive system translates to proper metabolisation of food and an optimal expulsion of waste from the body, which aids weight loss.

5. Fights Water Retention: Being a laxative, aloe vera juice is ideal for fighting water weight. However, it must be mentioned here that you should never drink too much of the juice, as it may then lead to diarrohea, cramping in stomach, dehydration, etc.

6. Heart Healthy: Regular consumption of aloe vera is healthy for the heart, as the plant is believed to fight cholesterol in the blood. Aloe vera is also said to regulate blood sugar levels, eliminating the need for you to eat more often.

Aloe vera can be consumed in many ways, the only condition being that it is consumed in small quantities to prevent any side effects. Moreover, if you have frequent tummy troubles and problems like diarrhoea or loose motions, it's best to avoid consumption of aloe vera juice. To prepare aloe vera juice, take a glass full of water and add some fresh aloe vera gel to it. Put the water in a pan and heat it while constantly stirring, until the gel blends in with the water. You can also add a little bit of lemon to the mix and drink this water, first thing in the morning, as a detoxifying drink.