Fashion for a healthy lifestyle and, in particular, for a healthy diet - this is undoubtedly a positive trend of modern life. Thanks to it, in everyday life there are new useful products, which until now have been undeservedly deprived of attention. For example, the drink from chicory , which is considered as a full replacement for coffee and tea, is gaining popularity today. It is made from the root of the plant, which is ubiquitous in the Russian expanses - a tall perennial with narrow leaves and tender blue flowers. In the meadows and roadsides, the chicory grows uncontrollably, like a weed. But there are also cultivars of this plant, which are specially cultivated. From their roots, and get a brown powder, used in cooking as a seasoning and concentrate for the drink. Often, the food is also used fresh leaves of chicory as a vitamin salad greens.
To taste the drink from chicory reminds coffee, but, unlike it, does not contain caffeine. Therefore, many people, especially those with health problems, confidently give preference to this new "panacea", not thinking about whether this product is really harmless. About contraindications chicory consumers often simply do not know. Or do not attach importance. And yet, the harm of chicory is a well-known fact. This drink can not be consumed uncontrolled, it's mandatory to get a consultation from a doctor beforehand.
Properties of chicory and contraindications
It is known that a drink from chicory is useful because it contains a lot of active substances. But contra-indications of chicory are also conditioned by its composition. It contains a large number of vitamins : C, Group B, A; microelements: iron, potassium, magnesium, sodium, etc. Also the composition of the product includes organic acids, protein compounds, pectins, tannins, inulin. The drink from chicory improves the metabolism, normalizes the work of the intestinal tract and digestive organs, stabilizes the level of sugar in the blood, etc. Contraindications to the use of chicory concern people with certain types of diseases. They should strongly limit the use of this product or completely eliminate it from the diet. Of those who are contraindicated in chicory, you can note in the first place:
- allergies and small children - vitamin C in the beverage can cause negative reactions;
- patients suffering from varicose or hemorrhoids - chicory is known for its adverse effects on blood vessels;
- asthmatics - the constant reception of chicory can cause them to cough.
Other side effects of chicory
Do not get carried away by a drink from the root of chicory to people who are overweight. It is proved that it stimulates the appetite, and, consequently, is a "provocateur"
Indications and contra-indications of chicory are closely related to the composition of powder concentrate, which is sold in stores. After all, rarely anyone uses for food natures a product made with the help of organic raw materials. And manufacturers of a drink from chicory for the sake of economy often add in it not too useful components, for example, dyes or flavorings. In this case, before buying, you should carefully study the list of ingredients on the package.