Chicory Root and How It Improves Your Health
A Mediterranean plant, chicory is popular for its whole range of culinary as well as medicinal applications. It grows well in almost any condition and is usually found along the roadsides in Europe, where it came from, but has now reached the Americas too.
Here are the most significant health benefits of chicory root:
Helps in Proper Digestion
Chicory promotes digestive health through its component, inulin, which is a strong prebiotic. Prebiotics are a group of bacteria that are beneficial to the host, rather than disease-causing. Inulin is used to fight various intestinal and digestive issues, such as acid reflux disease, heartburn and indigestion, due to its ability to reduce acidity in the body’s systems. Furthermore, it helps prevent constipation by promoting peristaltis and the secretion of gastric juices.
Prevents Cancer
Chicory extract has been associated with a decrease in tumor growth as evidenced in many cancer studies. This has something to do with the anti-tumor and anti-cancer qualities of the fructans found in chicory. According to studies on how inulin prevents cancer and tumor growth, chicory’s polyphenols and phytochemicals may also be a risk-free method for preventing different types of cancer, including colorectal cancer and breast cancer.
Minimizes Arthritic Pain
Chicory has been traditionally used against arthritis, and according to studies, it has anti-inflammatory attributes that enable it to control the pain in conditions like osteoarthritis. Chicory works as a general anti-inflammatory agent as well for all kinds of aches and pains.
Encourages Weight Loss
Chicory is a rich source of oligofructose, and inulin itself is a natural dietary fiber that enhances weight management by enhancing weight loss. These two help regulate ghrelin, the amino acid mostly associated with hunger, appetite and food-seeking behavior, thus contributing weight loss.
Reinforces Immunity
Chicory has a variety of beneficial attributes that enable it to strengthen your immune system. It is known for its antibacterial effects on a whole range of harmful bacteria. It also has phytochemicals, which act as antioxidants, further wiping out free radicals from your bloodstream and lowering your chances of getting diseases.
Manages Anxiety
Chicory offers sedative properties which are believed to lessen anxiety and calm the mind, hence relieving stress and its harmful effects on your body. Because of this, chicory root extracts may function as a sleep aid as well and even a much safe alternative to commercial sleeping pills these days.
Helps Improve Kidney Health
The chicory root extract acts as a diuretic, which simply means you can it can increase urine volume and frequency. Frequent urination helps remove toxins stored in your liver and kidneys, and thus prevents the dangerous conditions that result from toxins remaining in the body longer than they should.