Have you ever encountered chicory coffee? It’s a popular choice among those seeking natural and organic alternatives to traditional Arabica coffee. While chicory, known for its vibrant blue flowers, is often enjoyed as a sautéed side dish, its roasted root beverage is less familiar. Chicory coffee gained popularity during the World Wars, when access to ‘real’ coffee was limited due to scarcity or high costs. Today, it’s particularly favoured by those wanting to reduce or avoid caffeine.
Chicory, a plant native to Italy and belonging to the same family as the dandelion, is the source of this coffee-like drink. Its botanical name is *Cichorium intybus*. To create chicory coffee, the roots are dried, ground, and roasted, producing a beverage with a coffee-like taste – slightly bitter with a nutty aftertaste. It’s available in various forms, including whole beans, soluble powders, and ground powder. While you can brew it using a mocha pot, it’s best to fill the filter only halfway. For a truly authentic experience that maximizes chicory’s natural benefits, try making a decoction. Simply steep the dried root (available at herbal shops) in boiling water for a few minutes, then let it cool to room temperature before enjoying.
Properties and Benefits
Chicory coffee boasts a range of benefits, particularly for digestive health. *Cichorium intybus* is known for its ability to aid in the digestion of heavy meals by stimulating gastric secretion. It’s also rich in inulin, a natural prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, helps regulate bowel movements, and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Furthermore, chicory is packed with polyphenols and flavonoids, offering valuable antioxidant properties.
Contraindications
While chicory coffee offers numerous benefits, it might worsen certain digestive issues. Its stimulating effect on the digestive system can aggravate conditions like gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease. Individuals with these conditions should use chicory with caution or avoid it altogether.
Does it Cause Weight Loss?
Chicory coffee can contribute to a weight loss regimen due to its detoxifying and diuretic properties. While it doesn’t directly cause weight loss, it helps eliminate toxins and excess fluids. For those looking to shed pounds, incorporating chicory coffee into a low-calorie diet can be beneficial. However, moderation is key – ideally, no more than two cups a day.
Is it a Healthy Drink?
Chicory coffee can be a healthy alternative to traditional coffee, especially for those who need to reduce or eliminate caffeine intake. When consumed in moderation, it provides health benefits without adverse effects. However, excessive consumption may lead to issues like agitation and tachycardia. For individuals with ulcers, reflux problems, or pregnant women (due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions), chicory coffee might not be advisable.
Overall, chicory coffee offers a flavorful alternative that mirrors the taste of Arabica coffee while avoiding the drawbacks associated with caffeine. It’s a great choice for those seeking a healthier, caffeine-free beverage with digestive benefits.
