Chicory root is high in inulin, a prebiotic that promotes good gut bacteria and aids digestion. It is used as a coffee substitute and in many natural fiber supplements. Inulin is also used as a natural sweetener and is safe for diabetics. Consult a doctor before use.
The connection between chicory and inulin is in terms of its health benefits, which include improving digestion and helping good bacteria thrive in the intestinal system. The root is the most used part of the chicory, since a large percentage of inulin is available in this part of the chicory plant. Promoted as a beneficial prebiotic that can help ease digestion, inulin is used by many food manufacturers as a prebiotic and sweetener, as inulin provides a natural sweetness. Both chicory and inulin are widely used in the health food industry, because inulin has shown promise as a beneficial fiber that can help relieve constipation.
Chicory root is the root of the perennial plant called chicory. It is baked and ground into a powder and has been cultivated for use in Europe as a coffee substitute. Chicory is used as a coffee substitute by many health food enthusiasts around the world as it is very similar in taste while also providing numerous health benefits. The most popularized and prominent health benefit of chicory is its high content of inulin, a polysaccharide and fibrous carbohydrate. Nutritional research has shown that inulin is a natural prebiotic that acts as a fertilizer for beneficial gut bacteria.
Many manufacturers advertise the health benefits of chicory and inulin, as the inulin content in chicory can improve digestion due to its prebiotic components. Also, because chicory and inulin are associated with fiber, the inulin in chicory is often used in many natural fiber supplements. Some coffee substitutes will advertise this claim, as will supplement manufacturers who bottle chicory in capsule and liquid form. Many yogurts on the market add inulin, extracted from chicory, to their yogurt to increase beneficial bacteria.
Chicory and inulin contain natural components that promote sweetness, which is why there are many companies in the food industry that use these components to sweeten beverages or other food products. Since inulin is a fiber, it does not raise blood sugar or insulin levels like regular table sugar, so it is safe for diabetics. Both chicory and inulin can be used safely by most people, however, one should speak directly with a doctor or nutritionist before taking chicory and inulin.
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