Chicory Coffee: Are you ready to replace your cuppa' joe with this?

Chicory coffee is a beverage made using the roots of the chicory plant. It tastes quite similar to coffee but also has a slight nutty or woody flavour.

Although the history of chicory coffee is not entirely clear, it’s believed to have originated in the 1800s in France during a massive coffee shortage. Today, chicory coffee can be found in many parts of the world and is often used as a caffeine-free alternative to regular coffee.

Chicory root is the primary ingredient in chicory coffee. To make it, raw chicory root is minced, roasted and brewed into coffee.

Also watch: Caffeine got you buzzing? Try these alternatives to calm your nerves

Chicory coffee benefits

Naturally caffeine-free

Regular coffee contains caffeine which is associated with side effects like nausea, anxiety, insomnia and many others if consumed in high amounts. On the other hand, chicory root is naturally caffeine-free. For this reason, chicory coffee makes a fine coffee substitute for those looking to cut down on their caffeine intake.

Also watch: High caffeine intake could raise risk of blinding eye disease: Study

Improves digestive health

Chicory root is a good source of fibre, which may help improve several aspects of your digestive health. According to the National Institutes of Health in the USA, the roots contain inulin fiber which is a type of prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Thereby, it is beneficial for bowel function and to reduce constipation.

Decreases inflammation

Chronic inflammation is thought to contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Several studies at USA’s National Institutes of Health have found that chicory root reduces markers of inflammation.