Chicory root is more than just a plant that produces bright blue flowers. People have been using it for medicinal purposes and in traditional cooking for ages. It is also commonly used as a coffee alternative, for they have similarities in color and taste. However, this flowering plant that belongs to the dandelion family has more to offer. With all that said, here are three great health benefits of the chicory plant’s root:
- Chicory root helps in significantly improving gut health
The chicory plant is rich in inulin, which is a fiber famous for its exceptional prebiotic properties. Simply put, it feeds the microbes in your gut that aid in better digestion of food, better immunity, and lesser mood swings.
Chicory root also has anti-inflammatory properties and allows the absorption of essential nutrients such as calcium and magnesium. Apart from this, it aids in getting relief from constipation as well.
Without leaving any adverse health effects, chicory proved to increase the bowel functions of constipated folks. So before you even come across that problem, try to take 10 grams of chicory inulin every day!
- Aids in controlling sugar levels in people with diabetes
For folks who have problems with regulating blood sugar, the chicory plant can be a great solution to managing insulin.
Two groups of women with stage 2 diabetes were used as a sample to study the impacts of the chicory plant in terms of diabetic control. The first group was given chicory inulin daily, and the second one was treated under placebo.
The results proved the significance of chicory, as the first group was shown to have an increased level of blood antioxidants, reduced weight, and lower blood sugar levels. Love sweets? The high-performance inulin used in this research is a great sugar substitute that can be added to baked goods and drinks.
- Fiercely rich in antioxidants
Minerals, nutrients, and vitamins—the chicory root has it all! It also has lots of antioxidants. Isn’t it amazing? All these antioxidants are scientifically known to decrease inflammation and aid in the safer functioning of arteries. Plus, they’re great for keeping that youthful glow.
After knowing the substantial health benefits of this excellent plant, you must want to know where you can find it. Fresh chicory root is not readily available in the United States, but its leaves are more common. You can even buy readymade cans of ground chicory root on Amazon to mix with your coffee. However, if you’re allergic to ragweed or birch pollen, stay away from chicory!