Aloe Vera for blood sugar regulation
Aloe Vera is a plant known worldwide for its ability to heal our skin. We use it to treat sunburns, skin irritation, and to keep our skin smooth and healthy. We also use the plant to treat ear infections and similar conditions. Most of us, however, are unaware of Aloe Vera’s ability to balance our blood sugar levels. Laura McLively, an author and a dietitian, says that we should all open our minds to the idea of consuming Aloe Vera, mixed with our drinks and tonics, as they have been doing for centuries in Latin America. Emoliente is one of Latin American traditional drinks that includes this plant in a gel form. Aloe Vera gel is a brimming with potent antioxidants, most noticeably polyphenols which are helpful in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention. This antioxidant also prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. Research also shows that Aloe Vera gel also has the ability to lower and balance blood glucose in people suffering from diabetes.
Aloe Vera gel has a refreshing, light taste that makes it extremely usable in drinks and food. You can add it to salads, smoothies, or other dishes, without it becoming the overwhelming flavor. Aloe Vera is also extremely easy to grow, making it one of the most common healing plants in the world.
Those who decide to grow Aloe Vera themselves, and not just go out and buy the gel, need to pay attention when extracting the gel from the plant. The yellow latex needs to be carefully removed, as it is a powerful laxative. Scraping it off, then rinsing thoroughly is highly recommended when extracting the Aloe Vera gel.
In case you’re suffering from diabetes, or if you’re just trying to lead a healthier life, Aloe Vera can be a great addition to your diet. Here is an idea on how to incorporate it into your daily life:
Aloe Vera and mango ceviche
You will need:
- Gel from 1 large Aloe Vera leaf
- 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 small diced mango
- 1 lime wedge
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 tablespoons of chopped mint leaves
- 1 firm diced avocado
- ½ cup of minced red bell pepper
- 3 scallions
- ¾ teaspoon of salt
- 1 serrano chili
- Corn tortilla chips for serving
Slice the gel into cubes, put them in a bowl and add the lemon juice and half of the salt. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, up to overnight.
Place the contents of the bowl in a colander and rinse under cold water until no longer slippery. Drain, then combine the rest of the salt, scallions, mango, and the rest of the ingredients with the Aloe Vera. Taste for seasoning, adjust if needed, and serve with tortilla chips. Use the lime wedge for garnish. The ceviche can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Source: https://www.mindbodygreen.com
