People who drink aloe vera for health benefits may have to forego that regimen when they have blood work done. A correct analysis of some tests depends on an absence of foreign substances in your blood specimen. You may be requested to fast for up to 12 hours before giving a sample. Anything that you consume, including aloe or other supplements that you are taking, may change the composition of your blood and, therefore, the outcome of your blood test.
Water Fast Blood Tests
A laboratory review of your blood glucose tolerance or cholesterol levels, as well as any group of tests that includes these procedures, may require you to fast completely for eight to 12 hours before your blood is drawn. This means eating or drinking nothing except for plain water during that time. Water consumption maintains a proper fluid, electrolyte and pH balance in your body. Following fasting directions will allow you to present a blood sample that reflects your current normal health condition.
Effects of Aloe Vera
If you use aloe vera as a dietary supplement to address digestive or other physical problems, tell your doctor before you schedule a blood test. Aloe vera has strong laxative properties when taken orally and can cause diarrhea. If you are on a water only fast, diarrhea may affect your body fluid balance and blood volume. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, preliminary evidence suggests that consuming aloe can affect your blood glucose level. Oral dosage of aloe vera may also interact with certain medications. Your doctor will tell you whether to suspend aloe and other drugs or supplements while fasting.
Fasting Preparation
Your health care provider or the testing lab will inform you of the duration and specifics of any necessary fasting preparation. For convenience, blood draws are scheduled early in the day, and a fast is usually begun after dinnertime the night before. After a regular dinner, the general instruction is to eat no food and to drink nothing but water until after your blood is drawn the next morning. This directive may include abstinence from certain supplements or medications.
Your Blood Draw
Fully adhere to the laboratory or physician instructions for a successful fasting effort. Plan to have breakfast and take your usual dose of aloe vera after your appointment. If you accidentally take your routine supplements that day, let the lab technician know. You might have to reschedule your blood draw and delay your health evaluation.
