Chicory Root: chicory root fiber benefits,Uses

The simple-looking chicory plant has been long used in cooking and traditional medicine. It is considered to have rich medicinal properties, often referred to for its beneficial root.The use of chicory root and the fiber from this root is believed to play a supporting role in treating various body diseases.

Chicory can be considered a boon for health, the reason is chicory root is use for digestive health, diabetes treatment, help fight inflammatory arthritis, support weight loss, aid bowel movements, and improve skin barrier function.

“Commonly its root used to enhance the richness of the coffee, But it does not contain caffeine. It imparts the flavor of the beverage just like coffee..(in France and Japan)”(study) (study)

What Is Chicory Root?

Chicory root comes from Chicory flowering plant is widely grown in northwestern Europe, that belongs to the Dandelion family.

This root has both therapeutic and indigenous properties. In this study, it also contains some phytochemicals such as inulin-type fructans or fructooligosaccharide, has favorable effects.

Furthermore, 68% of the total compounds present in fresh chicory roots. (study)

The inulin in chicory root fiber is not digestible and feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These bacteria may increased weight loss and promote your gut health.

Chicory Root Fiber Benefits

Know the benefits of Chicory Root Fiber in detail below.

Digestive Health

Chicory root fiber can play an important role in relieving digestive system problems. It is a good source of good bacteria called Inulin. These bacteria are also called probiotics, which are responsible for better digestion. They help to relieve digestive problems such as acidity, indigestion, constipation, and heartburn. (study)

Not only this, the bacteria found in it also help to boost immunity.

Due to its inulin content, this can potentially reduce the risk of colon cancer. (study)

Let us tell you that inulin is found in many plants but chicory has the highest amount of inulin.

Aid Weight Loss

A good amount of fiber is found in its root. Fiber can work for maintaining energy in the body as well as controlling hunger for a long time.

Oligofructose is found in abundance in addition to inulin in chicory, which helps decrease levels of Ghrelin. (study)

Both these compounds are very helpful in controlling weight and hunger. It prevents over-eating and chicory food makes one feel full for a long time. It does not increase weight.

Manage Blood Suger Level

To avoid diabetes, its root can also be relied upon. According to an animal study published on the NCBI website, the Inulin of Chicory root fiber can help prevent diabetes. (study)

Both human and animal studies suggest that chicory root was found to help manage blood sugar levels.

May Reduce Stress

According to research published on the website of NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information), chicory root contains a good amount of antioxidants. Antioxidant properties can help relieve mental disorders, including anxiety, stress, and depression.

Reduce Cancer Risk

A study has found that chicory prevents tumors from growing and also protects against cancer. Due to its anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties, it is beneficial in providing protection against these diseases. This is the compound that plays an important role in preventing cancer, especially breast and colorectal cancer, (also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer).

The use of inulin as a prebiotic can improve health and prevent the development of cancer tumors. (study)

More research needs about this. Also, you can get medical treatment to get relief from it.

Decrease Inflammation

Talking about the benefits of chicory root fiber, it has properties to reduce inflammation. Inflammation can cause many problems in the body such as – arthritis, diabetes, allergies, and heart disease. (study)

In one animal study, its root may relieve the pain of osteoarthritis.

Naturally Caffeine-Free

Chicory root is naturally caffeine-free.

Its root is used as coffee but does not contain caffeine and tastes like light chocolate. If used with coffee, it inhibits the effects of caffeine.

Chicory root makes an excellent coffee alternative, which can be a great way for those who want to reduce caffeine consumption.

Possible Side Effects of Chicory Root

Chicory root can also have some side effects. Learn about the damage caused by it below.

After knowing the benefits of the Chicory root, many people would like to use it, but keep in mind that its root can only reduce the effects of physical problems.

• Do not use it if you are allergic to chicory, or products made from it.
• Women should avoid taking it during pregnancy or take it on the doctor’s advice.
• If you have gallstones, avoid taking chicory in this situation.
• Consuming it in excess can result in the risk of high blood pressure.

It is not a cure for any problem, but it can definitely play a supporting role in reducing the problem.