The beneficial properties of chicory are due to its rich composition – it is an excellent source of valuable vitamins, tannins and fiber. A drink from the root of the plant is useful for gastric microflora, since the main component of chicory – inulin. This substance is a special type of fiber, and, as you know, bifidobacteria that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract feed on it. Despite the fact that eating chicory is very useful, in some cases it can be harmful. Find out in the article all about the benefits and harms of chicory.
The benefits of chicory: the beneficial substances that make up the plant and their effect on the body
Soluble chicory concentrate is obtained by extraction – first, the fried dry root is boiled, and the resulting strong broth is dried in special & nbsp; sublimator ovens. The result is a powder that can be purchased at pharmacies.
Chicory root is 60% inulin – polysaccharide, which is widely used in the diet of diabetics as a substitute for starch and sugar.
In official medicine, chicory is used in the absence of appetite and hypoacid gastritis, as a sedative and diuretic, as well as for scurvy, hepatitis, cystitis.
Chicory has the following healing properties:
Calms the nervous system. Vitamins of group B, which are part of chicory, have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Thanks to them, the mood improves, energy and strength appear.
Promotes weight loss. Inulin, the main component of chicory, is able to lower blood sugar levels. In this regard, a chicory drink helps to neutralize the harm from eating pastries and sweets.
Vitamin B1 converts fats, proteins and carbohydrates into energy, and vitamin B2 breaks down fats. In addition, chicory contains active substances such as triterpenes, which contribute to the normalization of metabolic processes.
Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The potassium found in chicory is essential for maintaining a healthy heart, while the magnesium helps eliminate tachycardia and fight other heart diseases.
Lowers blood sugar levels. Since inulin lowers blood sugar levels, chicory is used in the diet of diabetic patients.
Increases immunity. Thanks to the regular use of chicory, the body is cleansed of toxins, the body begins to better absorb vitamins and minerals. Chicoric acid, which is contained in the plant, helps to increase immunity.
Improves the condition of the skin and hair. Calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B3, C, PP, which are part of chicory, accelerate the restoration of collagen fibers and tone the skin, help fight skin diseases. At the same time, chicory can be consumed both in the form of drinks, and use it as lotions. Chicory infusion is used as a hair rinse, as it improves the structure and stimulates hair growth.
The harm of chicory: who should not use this plant and why
Despite the fact that chicory is mostly beneficial, there are still exceptions to the rule. Chicory can cause harm if you use it for varicose veins, in the presence of other vascular diseases, you should also consult a doctor.
Also, the harm of chicory can be provoked by its excessive use, and in this case, the liver gets the most, while if this product is not abused, it will not harm.
Don't combine a chicory root drink with milk – this can provoke arrhythmia and increased pressure. After eating chicory, some people may experience insomnia and overexcitation.
Benefits of chicory – an indisputable fact and cases when its use worsens well-being – rather an exception to the rule. Any products should be consumed in moderation, because excessive doses of something can provoke a negative reaction of the body.
Add a comment