Novosibirsk doctors detail chicory's benefits and harms
Chicory is a caffeine-free alternative that doesn«t raise blood pressure or irritate the nervous system.
Sometimes people try to find a healthy alternative to coffee. Among such options is often chicory. The drink helps restore intestinal microflora and relieve stress. NGS learned from Novosibirsk doctors about the benefits and harms of chicory and who this drink might harm.
Benefits of chicory
Chicory is a herbaceous plant with blue flowers. Maria Karasenko, head of the children«s department at the »Smitra« clinic, pediatrician, and pediatric gastroenterologist, says that in the food industry, chicory root is used, from which a drink is made to replace coffee.
«In taste and smell, it somewhat resembles coffee and was originally used for people who are contraindicated for coffee. Now it is also used in medicine and cooking. The main advantage of chicory is the presence of inulin in its composition. These are prebiotic fibers that serve as a nutritional substrate for the growth of intestinal microflora and help improve its composition,» explains the doctor.
Nutritionist Olga Bayan clarifies that inulin stimulates the growth of bifido- and lactobacteria, which positively affects digestion, immunity, and even mood (the intestine is directly linked to serotonin production).
«Thanks to its low glycemic index and effect on glucose metabolism, chicory can help stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce sugar cravings, and improve cell sensitivity to insulin,» emphasizes Olga Bayan.
Maria Karasenko adds that as beneficial components, chicory contains B vitamins, vitamin C, organic acids, and carotene.
«Among the beneficial effects are stress relief and calming of the nervous system, lowering blood pressure, improving liver function. It stabilizes heart function and maintains energy and body tone without consequences for the heart, unlike caffeine,» notes the doctor.
Chicory offers a simple and effective replacement for coffee in daily consumption.
Chicory is allowed during pregnancy, but not in large doses, because overdose can cause allergic reactions, as with any product high in vitamin C.
«Chicory is permissible for children, but not before one year of age; it is often found in kindergarten menus. But because it can cause allergic reactions, we give a little bit first, observe the child«s condition, and then gradually increase the dose,» explains Maria Karasenko.
Olga Bayan recommends combining chicory with milk, a plant-based drink, or simply room temperature water. It can be added to smoothies or used as a base for desserts.
Harms of chicory
Most often, chicory, like any other product, is harmful due to exceeding the daily dose. Maria Karasenko emphasizes that the maximum daily dose of instant chicory for a healthy person is 3 tablespoons or 50–60 grams per day. Exceeding this dosage, people with chronic illnesses may feel worse. Special caution is needed for those diagnosed with gallstones and kidney stones, vascular diseases, and varicose veins.
Olga Bayan notes that 1–2 cups per day is optimal. It«s better not to drink it on an empty stomach, especially with a sensitive stomach. If you are just switching from coffee to chicory, start with half a teaspoon per cup and gradually increase the dose.
«The chicory drink stimulates gastric juice secretion. In people with gastritis, reflux, or ulcers, this can cause heartburn and discomfort. The choleretic effect of chicory is not beneficial for everyone. If you have stones, it can provoke pain or movement of the concretion,» comments Olga Bayan.
The nutritionist reminds that it«s worth choosing a pure product: many »coffee« drinks from chicory contain sugar, flavorings, and additives. On the label, look for this composition: 100% chicory root, without sugar and milk powders.
Previously, Novosibirsk doctors discussed the benefits of cocoa — how to consume it correctly.
