Proponents of healthy eating actively criticize the habit of starting the morning with a cup of aromatic coffee, citing various studies on the negative effects of this drink. As an alternative, they suggest adding chicory to the diet.
But what is chicory, and can it become not only a healthy but also a full replacement for the beloved invigorating drink? Let's find out.
For a long time, chicory was considered a weed. However, with the development of research on its beneficial properties, people began to realize the advantages of various types of chicory. Currently, this plant is cultivated purposefully for obtaining salad leaves, blanched buds, and roots, which are roasted, ground, and used as a coffee substitute, reports dietology.pro.
Additionally, "liquid chicory" can be found on the market. It is produced by evaporating the extract from the roots of the plant. This method is considered more natural and provides more benefits. It is just as easy to prepare as powdered chicory: the liquid product is mixed with water, requiring only 1/2 tsp.
Now let's discuss the beneficial properties of chicory drink. This list includes:
* absence of caffeine;
* boost of vitality and energy;
* reduction of blood pressure;
* decrease in blood sugar levels.
Among the drawbacks of the drink, we can highlight:
* increased appetite;
* dilation of blood vessels and reduction of venous wall tone;
* lowering of blood pressure — a downside for hypotensives;
* decreased sugar levels may become a problem for people with asthenic body types.
Moreover, chicory is contraindicated for people with exacerbated gastritis. Therefore, those suffering from this condition should consult a doctor beforehand about the possibility of consuming the drink.
In all other cases, it is recommended to drink chicory no more than 3-4 times a week, one cup a day.
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