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Chicory is a vegetable that, despite its health-promoting properties, is still not very popular in Poland. Meanwhile, by adding it to salads and casseroles, as well as other dishes, you can provide the body with many important ingredients. The low number of calories in chicory means that it is not at the same time burdensome for the body and can be an ingredient of almost any diet.
The origin and properties of chicory
Chicory is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. You can meet as many as 8 of its species, although the most common variety is Cythorium Intybus. It is recognized by its characteristic lanceolate leaves and light blue flowers. Its edible part is a leafy head growing from the root with green edges. When it comes to properties, chicory is a vegetable that is rich in valuable ingredients. Among them are such vitamins and minerals as: magnesium, manganese, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, zinc, carotene, folic acid, vitamins B1, B2 and C. It also contains lactcine and lacticrin.
Baked chicory root can be found in the composition of Pukka Licorice & Cinnamon – a warming tea with antioxidant properties.
The use of chicory
Chicory has a very beneficial effect on the digestive system, stimulating the appetite and positively influencing the work of the liver, thanks to which it produces more bile.
Chicory is included in, among others Pukka After Dinner – tea to calm digestion after a meal, which is worth ordering if we have digestive problems. Try also For digestion – a herbal tea that contains chicory root.
Another advantage of consuming chicory is that it increases the body’s ability to create red blood cells and improves kidney function. It should be used by people struggling with high cholesterol and diabetes, as well as women during lactation, because it increases the amount of milk for feeding a child. It is also considered a decaffeinated substitute for coffee, thanks to the fact that it strengthens the body.
Chicory retains the most health-promoting properties when eaten raw, added to a salad or salad. In terms of taste, it goes well with nuts, vinaigrette, fruit, meats and cheese. Before using chicory as an ingredient in a dish, you must rinse it thoroughly in cold water, cut the bitter sponge and get rid of the top leaves. If chicory is to be cooked, it is best not to cut it. A great idea for dinner is baked chicory wrapped in ham, with cheese sauce, and when it comes to dinner – a salad with endive, apple and walnuts. Before buying chicory, which will be used to prepare healthy meals, it is worth checking that its leaves are fresh and free of brown spots. Otherwise, it may mean that it is not a first-class product.
There is Pro Natura chicory inulin available on Medonet Market, which does not contain additives or preservatives. Also try Chicory Root Coffee, which is caffeine-free, so it can be served even to children. This coffee can be ordered on its own or in a liver kit, which additionally includes: ECO tea supporting the work of the liver and ECO green tea with prickly pear.
Chicory – contraindications
Chicory receives very positive reviews, although it should not be eaten by people suffering from gastritis or stomach ulcers. Due to the fact that chicory stimulates the appetite, its frequent use by diabetics and overweight people is also inadvisable. There are also cases of allergic reactions to chicory. When any symptoms appear that may indicate an allergy, it is urgent to see a doctor.
Side effects from using chicory
Although chicory is a vegetable very beneficial to health, its use in excessive amounts is harmful to the body. It contains a large amount of vitamin C. This can result in abdominal pain, nausea and heartburn.