Chicory extract is one of the main ingredients in the Vitagoli Pre & Probiotic Gummies but what exactly is it? Is it a tree or a flower? Chicory is a perennial plant with blue-colored flowers. It is native to Europe and in India, it is mainly found in Uttar Pradesh. Chicory leaves can be used as a salad, whereas the root extract can be used as a coffee substitute, dietary fiber, or food additive.
Let’s discuss the Nutritional content and then the benefits of the Chicory extract in detail.
Nutrition Present in Chicory Extract
Chicory extract is loaded with proteins, vitamins, and minerals. A half cup of raw chicory root contains –
- Calories: 32
- Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 22.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.9g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugars: 3.9g
- Protein: 0.6g
- Potassium: 130mg
- Calcium: 18.4mg
- Phosphorus: 27.4mg
- Folate: 10.4mcg
Chicory is known for its medicinal properties. A substantial amount of research has proven that chicory extract possesses anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and prebiotic properties. Additionally, it can improve digestion, manage appetite, and decrease the risk of digestive diseases. The major compound found in chicory is Inulin(68% of the body weight) which is known for its prebiotic effects which is what makes it very useful during indigestion or other health issues. The products formed after the breakdown of inulin and fructose have multiple benefits on bowel functions.
Sesquiterpene lactone found in the leaves and roots of chicory is known to possess anti-tumor, antimicrobial, and antiprotozoal effects.
The root and flowers of chicory also have flavonoids and tannins which showcased antioxidant and anti-nematode properties.
The Main Benefits of Chicory Extract Are –
Acts as a Prebiotic
Your gut has good bacteria or probiotics present which aid in digestion and digestive health. Chicory is a fiber that passes undigested throughout the stomach. It reaches the intestine where it acts as the prebiotic. Prebiotics act as the food source for the probiotics. Chicory promotes the growth of good bacteria which reduces inflammation, improves the absorption of minerals, and increases the concentration of good bacteria. The probiotics are also good for your mental health.
Read More – Role of Good Bacteria and Bad Bacteria in Depression.
Improves Bowel Movements
The inulin present in chicory is a soluble fiber that improves your bowel regularity. The chicory extract helps increase the frequency and consistency of the stool. The inulin in chicory can relieve the symptoms of constipation.
Controls Blood Sugar Level
Chicory extract shows amazing effect in effects in maintaining blood sugars as it can delay the onset of diabetes. This benefit of the extract is due to inulin as it promotes the growth of bacteria which aids in the breakdown of carbs into sugars. Inulin also makes the insulin sensitive to sugars hence absorbing it quickly and reducing the sugar levels in the blood.
Also, the extract improves glucose and calcium stability.
Helps in Weight Loss
The chicory extract has low calories and fat amount which helps manage weight. The extract has oligofructose which cannot be digested by the enzymes hence it functions in the same way as the fibers. Since it has a low calorie count it can easily substitute the fats and sugars and maintain hunger levels.
Inhibits cancer growth
Some studies are connecting the inhibition of breast cancer to chicory root extract. Also, some reports are linking the prevention of colon cancer to inulin (the compound formed by chicory extract).
Improves Brain Health
The extract contains vitamin B6 and manganese both of which play a role in your enhancing brain health. Vitamin B6 also known as Pyridoxine helps in the development of the brain and also in keeping your immune system and nervous system healthy.
Manganese is an essential mineral useful in the normal functioning of the nerve functions. Along with it, manganese also helps in the formation of connective tissues and clotting factors.
Helps in Osteoarthritis Management
Chicory root extract can be used as a topical ointment for swelling, inflammation, and even osteoarthritis. Many studies are being conducted to find more concrete evidence for this claim.
Improves the skin barrier function
The chicory extract can enhance your skin barrier function by restructuring it. The extract also reduces the dryness of the skin and can reduce the alterations in the skin. Some antifungal compounds were found in chicory root extract and it can be used in the treatment of eczema.
Reducing kidney problems
The chicory root extract has diuretic properties which increase your urine volume and reduce the toxin levels. Some research in rats shows the extract can lower the uric acid concentration and furthermore decreases the risk of kidney cancer. Decreasing the levels of uric acid means that it can also manage gout.
Effect on lipid profile
The chicory extract can increase the level of good cholesterol and decrease the levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
Precautions and Side Effects –
- The cases of allergies due to chicory are quite rare but not impossible. Cases of allergies are reported in people who work in grounding chicory and accidentally inhale it.
- Chicory is very well tolerated by people however it can lead to abdominal issues such as flatulence, belching, bloating, and stomach pain.
- Taking chicory in excess amounts can also trigger gallstone formation.
- The chicory extract can interact with diabetic medication and since chicory can reduce the blood sugar levels together with the medicines it will cause it to drop even lower.
Chicory Extract & Gummies
The Chicory Extract is an important ingredient of the Vitagoli Pre & Probiotic Gummies. These gummies improve your digestive health by improving the gut motility and gut flora. Additionally, these gummies enhance your vaginal health and decrease the symptoms of UTIs (urinary tract infections) as well. The probiotics are also very effective in dealing with the symptoms of stress and depression. Vitagoli is a wonderful solution if you want to boost your overall health.
