Chicory root is a plant species native to Europe, India, and North America. It belongs to the dandelion family and is commonly used as a coffee substitute or additive due to its earthy and nutty flavor. Chicory root has been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine due to its numerous health benefits.
One notable benefit of chicory root is its nutritional profile, which includes a high concentration of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients play important roles in various physiological processes, including muscle function, enzyme activity, and immune system support. In addition to its micronutrient content, chicory root is also a good source of dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and gut health.
Another potential benefit of chicory root is its effect on weight management and blood sugar regulation. Some research suggests that chicory root may help to reduce body weight and improve markers of glucose metabolism, although more studies are needed to confirm these findings. Chicory root is also rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that can neutralize harmful substances called free radicals and may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
There is also evidence to suggest that chicory root may have a positive impact on brain health and cognitive function. Some studies have found that supplementation with chicory root extract improved memory and learning in animals, while others have observed a decrease in inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain following chicory root intake.
In addition to its internal benefits, chicory root may also have external benefits for the skin, hair, and nails. Its antioxidant content may help to protect against damage caused by free radicals and improve the overall appearance of these tissues. Chicory root also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin.
VADE Nutrition offers a plant-based meal replacement powder containing chicory root and other nutrient-dense ingredients. The product is created for individuals seeking to improve their overall health without spending more time than they have. It can be taken as a meal replacement or snack and is easy to prepare due to the dissolvable food grade film technology.
References:
1. El-Khatib, R. A., Mokhtar, A. A., Abdel-Kader, M. S., Abdel-Ghany, S. S., & Moustafa, M. M. (2020). Chicory (Cichorium intybus): A Review of Its Nutritional and Health Benefits. International Journal of Food Science, 2020, 1-15. doi:10.1155/2020/9323720
2. Neetu, Singh, M., & Prakash, J. (2016). Chicory: A widely grown vegetable crop and its potential health benefits. International Journal of Nutrition, Pharmacology, Neurological Diseases, 6(4), 282–293. doi:10.4103/2231-0738.190898
3. Mazzanti, G., Battinelli, L., & Mastrocola, D. (2013). Chicory: a valuable source of biologically active compounds. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 1–13. doi:10.1155/2013/462796
