8 benefits of chicory

 8 benefits of chicory

When you hear “chicory”, what do you think of first? Well, chicory has a long distinguished history here in North America, both as a food and as a medicine. In fact, chicory root can be used as a coffee substitute or to add fiber to foods. In addition to that, this herb, when mixed with water, becomes smooth and creamy, so it can also replace margarines and dressings. Surprisingly, chicory root also offers very good health benefits. The benefits of chicory root include the ability to reduce inflammation, protect the liver, improve gut health, and more.

Benefits of chicory root

1.Reduces stress

The health benefits of chicory root begin with the taste. By using chicory in place of other ingredients, chicory helps reduce stress levels. For example, many people drink coffee every day, but the caffeine in coffee can make anxiety worse. Try chicory root instead. In a 2006 study, researchers found that repeated caffeine consumption combined with stress can dramatically increase cortisol levels. So, replacing your morning cup of coffee with roasted chicory root can help lower your caffeine intake and lower cortisol levels.

2.Provides anti-inflammatory properties

Next, the benefits of chicory root include the ability to fight inflammation. For example, chicory contains high levels of antioxidants. Studies have shown that these plant polyphenols, which are found in many varieties of chicory, can improve the body's ability to respond to inflammation. Therefore, by reducing inflammation, chicory root can help the body fight off many chronic diseases.

3.Protects the liver

The benefits of chicory root include the ability to cleanse your liver. In a 2011 publication by Pharmacognosy Magazine, researchers reported on the benefits of adding chicory powder to animal feed. First, they found that the inulin in chicory helps regulate appetite. Next, they noted that the combination of chicory, celery and barley powders can benefit people with liver disease. In fact, this herbal mixture "produces an excellent effect" on the liver.

4.Can help prevent diabetes

What's more, research suggests that chicory root's benefits may include the ability to prevent diabetes. According to a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in 2015, roasted chicory root extract was able to improve the level of adiponectin in the body, a protein that regulates glucose levels. So the researchers concluded that chicory root extract in addition to a diabetic diet may help delay or prevent the onset of diabetes. (4)

5. Helps manage osteoarthritis

The benefits of chicory root include the ability to help manage osteoarthritis. A clinical trial at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center concluded that chicory root extract "has a potential role in the management of osteoarthritis." In fact, researchers have noted that the anti-inflammatory properties of chicory root extract may help relieve symptoms of arthritis, including stiffness and pain in the joints.

6.Helps for gut health

The benefits of chicory root also include the ability to help with gut health. Chicory root contains both insoluble and soluble fiber, or prebiotics. Primarily, the prebiotic in chicory root, called inulin, promotes friendly bacteria in the gut. Prebiotics improve digestion by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Thanks to its prebiotic fiber, chicory root can help reduce gas, bloating and other digestive problems. (6)

7.Relieves constipation

The benefits of chicory root include the ability to relieve constipation. In a study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, researchers found that chicory root can help improve digestive health and fight constipation. They concluded: "Daily supplementation with 15g of inulin improves constipation and quality of life in an elderly population with constipation."

8.Use in moderation

Although there were "no observed side effects from chicory extract" in a review published in the international journal Food and Chemical Toxicology, it makes sense to consume chicory in the amounts naturally obtained as food. Pregnant women should consume chicory in moderation, and there is no recommended amount for children.