Chicory has enjoyed a recent surge in popularity as an alternative to coffee; some even swapping it out entirely in their morning cup-of-joe. Others use chicory as part of smoothies, DIY energy bars and hot beverages like coffee. As an annual plant in the dandelion family, chicory boasts woody notes with slightly nutty tones; its roots often blended with ground coffee to reduce acidity and bitterness while offering similar amounts of caffeine as its caffeine-filled counterpart without anxiety-inducing side effects like anxiety or insomnia.

However, if you suffer from allergies to plants such as ragweed and marigolds in the dandelion family (chickory, daisies and tulips), chicory products might cause side effects like sneezing, itching and swelling when consumed.

Though this might seem counter-intuitive, the root is becoming an increasingly popular coffee replacement or addition for its ability to assist in weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, reduce bloating and constipation and provide anti-inflammatory benefits that could potentially assist the immune system and ease symptoms associated with diseases and conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

It contains inulin fiber, a type of special fiber known for boosting good bacteria in your gut and decreasing inflammation in your body – both beneficial effects that could help prevent diabetes, heart disease and cancers from recurring. Chronic inflammation has been linked with numerous health issues including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancers.

Chicory inulin may help lower blood sugar by improving how our bodies use glucose. A small study on rats showed that drinking coffee brewed from chicory roots reduced insulin resistance and blood sugar.

Chicory root may act as a natural diuretic and help with urination. While more research must be conducted to confirm this theory, its high potassium content could explain this effect.

If you’re curious to try chicory coffee for yourself, begin with mixing 2/3 regular ground coffee and 1/3 roasted chicory in your brew, and see how that feels. Add cinnamon, nutmeg or cloves for some added spice; just be sure to stir well afterwards and enjoy!