Chicory Coffee: Good for You? Benefits & Side Effects Revealed

Nowadays, chicory beverages are considered an effective coffee substitute. In fact, they have gained huge popularity lately.

Is it good or bad drinking chicory coffee? In general, there're more benefits drinking chicory coffee. Chicory coffee is a beverage that does not contain caffeine at all and it is widely preferred by people, who are willing to reduce their caffeine consumption.

Chicory coffee, which is made of chicory root, can be beneficial for upset stomach, rapid heartbeat constipation, liver disorders and even cancer. 

Besides, this tasty coffee substitute will help you kick your harmful caffeine habit and still give you the chance to enjoy a warm drink every morning.

When chicory coffee is made, the root of the plant is usually dried. roasted and ground before it is ready for consummation.

Chicory root can be easily blended with any type of coffee or substitute for it entirely.

Roasted chicory beverages are normally made exclusively from chicory and other substances, which do not contain caffeine. so it is guaranteed they are caffeine-free.

Did you know sometimes people can experience negative effects when they consume higher doses of caffeine?

Most people complain from unpleasant symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, high blood pressure, digestive issues. So, replacing caffeine drinks with chicory coffee is probably the best thing you could do.

Moreover, it is commonly believed caffeine is addictive. That is why drinking coffee substitutes might be the perfect choice. Chicory coffee is an excellent way to decrease or eliminate your daily caffeine intake.

Why do you have to put up with all negative effects of caffeine, when you can enjoy a warm drink that tastes like coffee, but does not lead to excruciating symptoms? Not only chicory coffee is a healthy coffee substitute, but it feeds your gut flora and prevents the occurrence of several diseases

What is Chicory Coffee?

Chicory coffee is popular among coffee lovers, because it tastes similar, yet it does not make them nervous like caffeine does.

Chicory coffee is a beverage, which is normally made using chicory root that is ground roasted and then brewed into coffee. Chicory root coffee appeals to a healthier lifestyle.

The chicory root in the coffee is a good source of inulin, which is linked to improved gut health and increased weight loss.

Chicory coffee also contains manganese and vitamin B6 and these essential nutrients promote brain health.

This coffee substitute aids in digestion, lowering blood sugar and reducing inflammation. However, chicory coffee might have some negative effects on some people.

It might trigger allergic reactions like swelling or pain, especially among those who suffer from birch pollen allergies.

Most chicory beverages are NOT made entirely from chicory root. You are more likely to find pure coffee blended with chicory. The caffeine content in these blended coffees varies depending on the ration chicory and coffee beans.

In addition to chicory root and coffee, most manufacturers use different roasted plants to cut caffeine or improve the flavor.

Chicory root coffee might have a more specific taste. but it has been consumed by people of all ages.

You have to try it yourself and see whether it suits your preferences and successfully substitutes caffeine drinks.

How Chicory Coffee is Made?

Manufacturers carefully select the chicory roots from the cultivated plants, roast and grind them. Chicory coffee is usually made from minced chicory root so that it roasts quickly.

It is roasted until golden brown and then grounded in a special coffee grinder to a fine powder. Some shops now sell whole chicory roots. So, you can buy one and prepare your own chicory coffee.

If you decide to make a blended chicory coffee, you will need to mix your chicory root with coffee grounds.

As mentioned, many brands mix chicory with coffee beans instead of selling 100% chicory coffee.

When chicory root is added to the coffee beans, its main purpose is to soften their bitter taste.

However, chicory coffee might still taste bitter and it is the main reason why many people prefer to drink it with milk.

Today, many brands also make instant chicory coffee, which is definitely an easier alternative. Personally, I always get 100% plant-based instant chicory coffee as it is very easy to consume.

You just need to add some water, either hot or cold, and you can have a delicious warm drink in a moment.

Instant coffee is more convenient and it can be prepared outside when you are camping or having a picnic.

Benefits of Drinking Chicory Root Coffee

1. Improve digestive health

It is backed up by science that chicory root is a great source of inulin fiber, which can help you improve your digestive health.

This fiber is a type of prebiotic and it encourages the growth of a healthy bacteria in your gut. According to several studies, inulin can increase the concentration of this healthy bacteria strains in one's colon.

Another study shows that chicory is able to reduce constipation and improve your bowel function.

So, if you have any digestive issues, you should consider adding chicory root coffee to your menu. Once you see how many health benefits it offers. you will never go back to caffeine.

2. Lowering the blood sugar levels

The inulin in the chicory root has been shown to help manage one's blood sugar levels. It improves the way carbohydrates are metabolized.

Studies show that inulin might have a great impact on the blood sugar and the insulin resistance. For those not familiar with insulin, it is the hormone, which transports sugar from your blood muscles and tissues.

When the levels of insulin in the body are high for a long time, the insulin resistance occurs. It can decrease the effectiveness of this hormone and result in high blood sugar.

Chicory coffee can be really helpful for people who have noticed signs of prediabetes such as increased thirst, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Besides, chicory root might increase the levels of adiponectin, which is a protein that can regulate your glucose levels.

3. Detox effects

Chicory root contains essential minerals that aid the detoxification processes in your body. This root is high in potassium, which is an electrolyte mineral that is important for your heart health and blood pressure.

Minerals are vital for the optimal functioning of your body such as the balancing of alkalinity and acidity.

Most detox programs emphasize on consuming foods and beverages that are rich in minerals.

By drinking chicory root beverages, you will correct your metabolic acidity, support the mineral requirements of your body, and encourage the detoxification.

Your body needs this detoxification or physiological removal of dangerous toxic substances so that it can function properly.

Chicory root is able to detox your liver. It reduces oxidative stress, prevents cell damage and improves the conditions inside the liver. Chicory protects the liver from free radicals and possible toxicity.

4. Decreasing inflammation

People say inflammation is a normal response of your immune system. But in most cases, inflammation can contribute to serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or cancer.

Chicory root is proven to possess anti-inflammatory properties and it is because of the inhibition of various cytokines. These small proteins are very important for the cell signaling.

When chicory coffee is consumed there will be a significant improvement in the red blood cell deformability, which means your body will be able to restore cells to their original condition and respond to inflammation.

We all know inflammation is the root of almost all diseases and if you lower it you will stave off other health problems.

Drinking a cup of chicory coffee every morning can protect you from inflammatory processes and improve the functions of your immune system.

5. Supporting weight loss

Chicory root fiber might regulate appetite and decrease your overall calorie intake. When you stop consuming so many calories, you will finally accomplish a healthy weight loss.

A study shows that chicory-derived oligofructose is able to decrease the levels of ghrelin.

This hormone stimulates your constant feeling of hunger and when its levels become lower, you will not feel the need to consume big portions anymore.

Chicory root can increase your feelings of fullness and regulate your appetite in this way. It increases cholecystokinin and glucagon which are called satiety hormones and make you feel full after a meal.

If you want to achieve your goal, lose weight in a short time and enjoy your future skinny figure, you should consider giving up caffeine and start drinking chicory root coffee.

Not only you will enjoy a sweet beverage. but you will improve your figure and self-esteem as well,

Side Effects From Chicory Coffee

In general, chicory root is considered safe for most people. It has been used for medical and culinary purposes for a long time.

Unfortunately, not everyone is taking the chicory root so well. Some people might actually experience some negative side effects.

1. Digestive problems

The inulin fiber in the chicory root might cause gas in your stomach or bloating. Too much inulin can also result in flatulence, stomach cramping, constipation or diarrhea.

If you want to avoid these symptoms, you should try NOT to consume high amounts of chicory coffee.

2. Allergic reactions

Chicory root can trigger awful allergic reactions. People who suffer from birch pollen and ragweed allergies should be extremely careful, because it can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

They might experience swelling, tingling or pain in the mouth and throat after chicory ingesting.

If you feel similar symptoms after consuming chicory coffee, you should see a doctor immediately.

3. Skin irritations

It is reported exposure to the root of chicory might cause different skin irritations. It can happen while you are handling the chicory plant or root.

That is why you have to be careful if you have decided to buy a chicory root and make your own chicory coffee at home.

4. Asthma

People who already suffer from asthma should avoid staying close to chicory plant or powder. When you inhale the powder from dried chicory root, it might trigger your asthma and lead to complications.

Is Chicory Coffee Acidic or Alkaline?

Most coffee types are acidic and their average pH is from 4.85 to 5.10. But when it comes to coffee acidity, factors like roasting, brewing or ground size play a major role.

It is believed chicory coffee is being produced by raw materials. These materials are likely to contain considerable amount of chlorogenic acid. But the roasting process leads to a significant loss of this acid.

The content of acids in chicory root is around 3% in dried material. So, this makes chicory coffee slightly alkaline.

But again, it depends on how it is roasted and brewed. The consumption of chicory coffee will not result in acid reflux, which is a very unpleasant condition.

What Does Chicory Coffee Taste Like?

Chicory coffee usually tastes similar to the normal coffee, but users often describe its flavor as more nutty and slightly woody.

The chicory root adds a dried-fruit sweet sourness to the fresh coffee. Some people think chicory tastes somehow strange and has its own acrid flavor, others think it’s very aromatic and compare it to fresh-roasted nut and warm cedar.

When you mix it with milk it tastes much like hazelnut-flavored coffee and it is delicious anyway.

Does Chicory Coffee Stain Teeth?

Many people confirm that coffee terribly stains their teeth. Fortunately, chicory coffee does not contain tannins that stain your teeth as normal coffee does.

You might be worried your teeth will become yellow and ugly, but you will eventually realize that is not going to happen. You can enjoy a cup of chicory root coffee every day and still have a brilliant smile.

Dentists frequently say drinking too much coffee is harmful for the teeth and their color, but chicory coffee is the best alternative.

Does Chicory Coffee Cause Diarrhea?

Chicory root does have a laxative effect but it is mild. Actually, it can decrease swelling! If you consume chicory coffee in normal amounts, you will not get diarrhea.

The amounts could vary, but in general, it is recommended to use 2 tablespoons of chicory coffee per cup.

You know everything can be harmful if you overdose. So, stick to the usual amount every day and you will not have any problems with your stomach.

If you want to feel more comfortable, you should probably avoid drinking chicory coffee before travelling.

Can You Cold Brew Chicory Coffee?

In case you are a fan of iced coffee, you can absolutely cold brew chicory root coffee. Serving chicory iced coffee to your guests might be the perfect way to pamper them and teach them the enormous benefits of chicory root.

You can cold brew both ground and instant chicory coffee. When you cold brew ground chicory coffee, you will be able to enjoy rich taste with a touch of nuts and wood.

Or if you are pressed for time, you can easily prepare an instant chicory coffee cold drink and add some creamer.