Contents:

• Chicory coffee – properties and effects on the body
• Who shouldn't drink chicory drink? What are the contraindications?

Although it's not technically coffee, we call it that because of the popular chicory drink. Chicory coffee has been around for years. We drink it as a delicious alternative to black coffee. However, not all of us are aware of the positive effects its consumption has on our bodies. Chicory is a source of vitamins and minerals, and the "coffee" made from it is caffeine-free. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women can drink it. It's also safe for people with high blood pressure and heart disease.

Chicory coffee – properties and effects on the body

Chicory drink is made from roasted chicory roots. Chicory (Cichorium L.) is a plant from the Asteraceae family, known since ancient times. Today, it is cultivated in Europe, Asia, America, and northern Africa. Among the most popular types in our country are chicory: root, white root, and lettuce. Chicory coffee is low in carbohydrates and contains no sugar, fat, or cholesterol. Instead, it is a source of vitamins and minerals and replenishes the body with ingredients such as:

• fiber,
• Vitamins A, C, K and E,
• B vitamins: B1, B2 and folic acid,
• Beta-carotene,
• Inulin,
• Iron,
• Magnesium ,
• Phosphorus,
• Calcium,
• Potassium,
• Selenium,
• Zinc,
• Manganese.

Chicory coffee is recommended for year-round consumption—in winter, it has a positive effect on our immunity, and in summer, it provides us with essential vitamins and minerals during the heat. Thanks to its high fiber content, it improves the functioning of the digestive tract, and the inulin it contains influences the proper structure of the bacterial flora in the intestines. Regular consumption of this drink:

• protects against the development of arteriosclerosis,
• accelerates the metabolic process,
• stimulates the body to produce red blood cells,
• impairs the proper function of the kidneys,
• helps lower cholesterol levels,
• influences the proper functioning of the digestive system: supports liver function and influences digestive processes, stimulates intestinal function, supports bile secretion,
• has a diuretic effect,
• cleanses the body of accumulated toxins,
• increases milk secretion during breastfeeding,
• increases the absorption of calcium,
• protects the body from free radicals,
• helps regulate blood sugar levels,
• helps to reduce pressure.

Who shouldn't drink chicory drink? What are the contraindications?

Although chicory coffee is generally safe to consume, patients with celiac disease and gluten intolerance cannot drink it due to its gluten content. Special caution is also advised for people with a predisposition to allergies and varicose veins. Excessive consumption of chicory coffee can lead to side effects such as excessive flatulence and discomfort due to its high inulin content. Chicory coffee is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as for children over three years of age.

Its flavor is delicate, compared to the taste of instant coffee. It can be consumed neat or with the addition of milk (including plant-based milk), cream, or a little sugar. It tastes excellent with ingredients like vanilla, cardamom , or cinnamon. In summer, it also tastes delicious frozen or with vanilla ice cream.