Chicory Root

In more recent years, chicory root has been the subject of many health studies. It’s been shown to reduce inflammation, delay or prevent the onset of diabetes, and even help folks’ arthritis.

In one study, folks who took chicory root extract saw improved A1c levels, which is an indicator of diabetes. In addition, researchers found that chicory also significantly improved adiponectin levels. Adiponectin is a protein that’s involved in regulating glucose levels. Both of these findings indicated that enjoying chicory regularly could thwart the development and/or onset of diabetes.

Another study found that chicory root also improves arthritis symptoms. A clinical trial done by the Rheumatic Diseases Division at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s Department of Internal Medicine shows that chicory root may also be able to combat the painful symptoms of arthritis.

When people aged 50 or older who had osteoarthritis of the hip or knee took chicory, some showed a 20 percent improvement in pain and stiffness. This means chicory root might help reduce the pain and stiffness caused by arthritis.

Perhaps of all these incredible abilities, reducing inflammation is the key to chicory’s powers, since it’s full of plant polyphenols that can stomp out inflammation and curtail its effects on the body. This is so important because inflammation is considered the gateway to many chronic diseases.

Chicory is easy to get. You can look for it in health food store or online retailer websites.In addition, there are a few coffee makers that offer coffee and chicory blends. The most popular is Cafe Du Monde, and their coffees are available through their website, CafeDuMonde.com.

By: Natalie Moore; Living Well Daily