Chicory is a herb with a fleshy root. It is currently popular as a harmless coffee substitute. However, not everyone is aware of the health benefits of chicory.
Inulin is the main benefit of chicory
The roots and ground part of chicory contain a lot of substances useful for the body, including vitamins and trace elements. The most important active ingredient is inulin, a soluble dietary fiber. It is contained in the roots of chicory as much as 60%.
Inulin improves the intestinal microflora, promotes the elimination of toxins, radionuclides, salts. It has a positive effect on the absorption of many essential vitamins and minerals. Inulin even contains amino acids.
The amino acids leucine and isoleucine help insulin production and restore blood sugar levels. Methionine and arginine protect against fatty liver disease. Phenylalanine and tryptophan help reduce appetite.
Due to these unique properties, inulin is actively used in diabetic nutrition. Therefore, it is useful for diabetics to drink chicory. Both the root and chicory leaves contain inulin.
Chicory is also used in dietary nutrition, in the fight against obesity. It has a positive effect on metabolism, normalizing it. Tryptophan and phenylalanine, which are part of inulin, naturally suppress appetite.
Other beneficial properties of chicory
The infusion of chicory inflorescences has a calming effect on the central nervous system, therefore it is indicated to be taken for insomnia and nervous overexcitation. Also, such an infusion normalizes the work of the heart muscle. Infusion of the root has a diuretic and choleretic effect, so it is good in the treatment of urinary diseases.
As for external use, chicory decoction helps with skin diseases. Method of application - applications, baths. They have a wound healing and antiseptic effect.
Chicory contains many vitamins. Among them are A, C, B1, B2, PP, E. A number of trace elements are also present: manganese, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorus.
The benefits of a morning cup of chicory over a morning cup of coffee are obvious. If taken regularly, you will experience all of the above positive effects and protect yourself from a number of diseases. At a minimum, the work of the digestive system will be improved.
Despite the full range of useful properties of chicory, it should still be taken in moderation. Any natural substance has its own norms of use, otherwise it may have the opposite effect. One cup of chicory a day should be enough to get the most out of it.
