The chicory root is the root of the chicory plant, a member of the dandelion family. It’s often used as a coffee substitute due to its slightly bitter taste and dark roasted aroma. However, it also boasts potential health benefits and various nutritional contributions:
Chicory Root extracts are rich in antioxidant that improves reproductive parameters in males and boost reproductive performance in female
Today we explore chicory root fertility benefits, we also know if pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should consume this extract.
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Chicory Health Benefits:
- Improves Gut Health: Chicory root is a rich source of inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, promoting digestion and potentially aiding immune function.
- Help Rugulate Blood Sugar Level: Studies suggest chicory root may help regulate blood sugar levels, potentially benefiting individuals with type 2 diabetes.
- Aids Appetite control: Inulin’s prebiotic properties may contribute to feelings of fullness and potentially aid in weight management.
- Boost Antioxidant function: Chicory root contains various plant compounds with antioxidant effects, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Chicory Essential Nutrients:
- Fiber: As mentioned, chicory root is a high-fiber source, mainly in the form of inulin, contributing to digestive health and potential weight management benefits.
- Minerals: Chicory root contains small amounts of various minerals, including potassium, manganese, and phosphorus.
- Vitamins: It also contains trace amounts of some vitamins, including vitamin B6 and folate.
Chicory Root Fertility Benefits
1. Promotes menstrual flow
Menstruation is a crucial factor to consider when dealing with fertility and reproduction, it is a sign that a woman has come of reproductive age. Chicory is found to have an emmenagogue effect which can help induce menstruation in females with amorrhea.
2. Boost the chance of pregnancy
Taking chicory root while trying to conceive could be beneficial due to its fiber content which may improve reproductive performance while waiting to get pregnant.
A 2020 study reported that chicory fiber improved the reproductive performance of pregnant rats involved in altering intestinal microbiota composition, thus suggesting that dietary intake of chicory fiber can reproductive performance and intestinal health.
3. Improves reproductive parameters in male
As for male fertility, the leaf extract may help improve reproductive parameters. A 2019 study on maratsrat reported improved reproductive parameters in male rats which was linked to its antioxidant and androgenic properties. How a study on humans is needed to determine if the effect is the same in humans and animals.
Is Chicory Root During Pregnancy Safe?
- Is Chicory Root Safe to Consume During Pregnancy?: Chicory extract has emmenagogue and abortifacient properties, hence it’s best to stay safe and avoid it if you are pregnant. One study in 2014 reported cases of stomach cramping, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea dto ue excessive intake of chicory. Another older study on animal models also reported its contraceptive effect on female rats.
There is also a claim that too much chicory may cause uterine contraction and increase the risk of bleeding but it’s not yet established in scientific research.
Inulin Safety During Pregnancy:
Inulin, a type of fiber found in chicory root, is it safe during pregnancy? Yes, generally it’s considered likely safe during pregnancy in moderate amounts. However, consulting your doctor before consuming significant amounts is always recommended
Chicory Root During Lactation (Breastfeeding) Safe?
Can you have chicory root while breastfeeding? Consuming too much chicory during lactation may increase phyto-oestrogen concentration in breast milk which could interfere with child DNA formation. According to reports from a study on cows that were fed (white clover, red clover, lucerne, or chicory-rich pastures) for 15 days showed higher concentrations of phytoestrogens in their milk. Therefore best to avoid it for the safety of your baby during lactation.
Who should avoid chicory root?
While generally safe for most adults, chicory root might not be suitable for everyone. Here are some groups who should avoid chicory root or consult their healthcare provider before consuming it:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Due to limited research on its safety during these stages, it’s best to avoid chicory root.
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- Individuals with ragweed allergy: Chicory belongs to the same family as ragweed, and consuming it could trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals report reveals.
. - People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Findinshowows that Chicory root’s high fiber content, particularly inulin, can worsen digestive issues in those with IBS.
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- Individuals with gallstones: As chicory stimulates bile production, it might worsen symptoms in individuals with gallstones.
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- People undergoing surgery: Chicory root might affect blood sugar control, potentially interfering with blood sugar management during and after surgery.
Remember, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your baby.
JC is passionate about finding the impact of foods (feeding habits) on human fertility and reproductive health and a way to improve fertility.
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