Chicory root is being hailed as the new coffee substitute (as if that is even possible). The root has a smooth, creamy feel to the mouth and a warm, earthy taste. It is a good source of fiber and absolutely packed with antioxidants.
It’s a great way to start the day and to support your body as well. Here are five ways that it makes living with diabetes a whole lot easier.
1. Regulates Blood Glucose
Chicory root regulates blood sugar by way of adiponectin, a protein that helps metabolize glucose and fatty acids. By drinking chicory root tea every morning, you provide your body with a healthy dose of glucose regulating protein.
2. Reduces Stress
Chicory root is a mild sedative, giving you a sense of tranquility upon drinking. Lactucin and lactucopicrin are the active compounds in chicory root that provide the sedative quality that chicory root is known for. These same compounds also work as a natural analgesic with similar potency as 60 mg of ibuprofen. Chicory root calms you down and numbs mild pain.
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3. Protects the Liver
Chicory root protects the liver from oxidative stress, thanks to its abundance of antioxidants. But that’s not the only thing it protects: the antioxidants work to fight free radical damage all throughout the body.
4. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chicory root contains polyphenols, powerful compounds that fight inflammation. This is important for diabetics as diabetes causes inflammation all throughout the body, particularly in the lining of blood vessels. This leads to serious damage to the heart, eyes, brain, and extremities. Drink your daily anti-inflammatory to help protect your body against inflammation caused by diabetes.
5. Is Good for the Gut
Chicory root also contains inulin, a prebiotic. Through fermentation, chicory supports the growth of probiotics in the gut. More probiotics mean better nutrient absorption and better digestion. This, combined with the fiber in chicory root, also helps alleviate constipation.
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Dr. Axe. URL Link. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology. URL Link. Retrieved August 5, 2017.
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