Effect of Aloe vera Supplements in Patients with Pre‐Diabetes

Metabolic syndrome confers an increased propensity to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Aloe vera, a plant used for dermatological applications, exhibits effects on blood glucose in diabetic mice. However, there is a paucity of data with regards to Aloe in improving glycemia. The aim was to examine the safety and antidiabetic effects of 2 aloe products, UP780, a chromone‐enriched Aloe gel fillet powder and AC952, Aloe gel fillet powder standardized to 10% polysaccharide without chromone, in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in patients with pre‐diabetes. 45 patients were randomized to 2 tablets/day of Placebo, UP780 and AC952(500 mg bid) for 8 weeks. Fasting blood and urine were obtained at baseline and 8 weeks. There were no significant changes in weight and routine chemistries, indicating safety of both Aloe supplements. In the UP780 group, there were significant reductions in HbA1C, fructosamine and insulin (p<0.05). Urinary f2‐isoprostanes were significantly decreased compared to baseline. In the AC 952 group, in addition to a decrease in fructosamine, there were significant reductions in total and LDL cholesterol levels and glucose and fructosamine values after supplementation. Thus, we report for the first time that 2 Aloe products significantly improved glycemic control in patients with pre‐diabetes.