Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a flowering plant whose root is popular as a coffee substitute. It is a perennial plant, and its roots are rich in fiber and other important nutrients.
Chicory root may boost digestive health, aid diabetes treatment, help fight inflammatory arthritis, aid weight loss, and improve skin barrier function.
In this article, we have discussed the many benefits of chicory root and how you can use it in your diet. You can also check out the nutritional profile of the root.
In the following section, we will look at the benefits of the root in detail.
1. May boost digestive health
The inulin in chicory works as a powerful prebiotic. It improves gut function by promoting the health of the gut bacteria. It also is well tolerated by individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms.
Inulin also works as a natural fiber and eases constipation. It promotes a smooth and regular digestive process, and this can potentially reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
2. May aid diabetes treatment
Studies have shown that chicory root extract can increase the levels of adiponectin, a protein that regulates blood glucose levels. This can help delay or prevent the early onset of diabetes.
In a rat study, chicory extract was found to be useful as a natural dietary supplement for slowing down the progression of diabetes.
3. May help fight inflammatory arthritis
Preliminary studies show that bioactive extracts of chicory root can have a potential role in treating osteoarthritis. It is believed that plant polyphenols combat inflammation. If you have inflammatory arthritis, chicory root could be one remedy you can look at (after consulting your doctor).
Intake of chicory was found to enhance blood flow and the functioning of red blood cells. It is believed that this property of chicory could help combat inflammation, though more research is warranted. Chicory appears likely to help in the treatment of arthritis or gout, but more studies are needed in this regard.
4. May aid weight loss
This could be attributed to the inulin in chicory root. Studies show that inulin can aid weight loss, especially in individuals with prediabetes.
5. May improve skin barrier function
Studies have shown that chicory root extracts may improve skin barrier function. They may also treat the dryness that accompanies the aging process.
Chicory root extracts act as an active ingredient and can restructure the skin barrier. These extracts can effectively maintain homeostasis and prevent skin alterations.
6. May reduce stress
Whether chicory root directly reduces stress is yet to be studied. However, because of its flavor, it is often used to make a beverage that can be substituted for coffee. Studies show that excess coffee (caffeine) intake can aggravate stress. Repeated caffeine consumption, combined with stress, can increase one’s cortisol levels and further cause issues.
7. May boost liver health
A rat study states that chicory extract can protect the liver from oxidative damage. However, excess (doses of 200 mg per kg of body weight) of the same may cause damage to the liver.
In an Egyptian study, chicory extract was found to reduce oxidative stress and prevent cell damage in rat livers. When taken along with celery leaves, the mixture could reduce the symptoms of liver diseases.
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