Aside from being downright unpleasant, this can lead to dehydration and “dangerously low levels of electrolytes1 like potassium and sodium,” notes Cording. Electrolytes are necessary for balancing your body’s fluids and maintaining the electrical charge of your cells. Diarrhea could lead to an electrolyte imbalance2, making it difficult for your body to perform these basic functions. If you have diabetes and are taking medication to lower blood sugar, steer clear of drinking aloe. It “lowers blood sugar as well, so a person’s blood sugar can potentially dip to dangerously low levels,” says Largeman-Roth. The same goes for if you’re taking blood thinners, including over-the-counter aspirin. “Aloe vera may decrease blood clotting,” she adds, so the combo could lead to excessive bleeding. For some bleeding disorders, this could be helpful. But it may also increase the risk for serious bleeding issues, especially during surgery. Aloe vera has been known to interact with sevoflurane, a drug with antiplatelet effects that’s used as a general anesthesia. When combined, the two can cause severe blood loss during surgery. Typically, 8 ounces of aloe vera juice contains about 9.4 milligrams of vitamin C5. Some brands are also fortified with the nutrient, along with other vitamins and minerals. All in all, however, there are plenty of other ways to get vitamin C. The jury’s still out on its safety, though. According to Largeman-Roth, “It used to be sold in over-the-counter [constipation] remedies but was taken off the market in 2002 after it was determined that the safety of aloe vera for this use couldn’t be established.” You should also avoid oral intake of aloe vera if you’re pregnant. (It could stimulate the uterus8 and cause premature labor, but applying it topically is considered to be safe during pregnancy.) Regardless, even if you don’t check any of these boxes, consume aloe vera with caution. Check with your doctor first.
