Chicory belongs to the same family as radicchio. It has a distinctly bitter taste and is particularly rich in beneficial substances that act on several fronts. "Harvested in autumn and winter, it has nutraceutical properties," he explains Valentina Schirò, a nutrition biologist specializing in food sciences. "Spontaneous or cultivated, it is a herbaceous plant rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that have a protective action on health. It also stimulates the work of some organs of the body, including the intestine, the kidneys, the liver which play a key role in its proper functioning ", explains the expert, who here suggests why to eat it.

Quench your appetite

Chicory, eaten cooked or raw, is an excellent ally of the line. "Thanks to the richness of fiber, it regulates intestinal transit and reduces the absorption of sugars, avoiding changes in blood sugar, which are responsible for hunger attacks. It also provides inulin, a prebiotic fiber that balances the intestinal microbiota, which is involved through the production of hormones such as serotonin in the regulation of hunger . In addition, it has a choleretic and diuretic action. «Its bitter taste stimulates the release of bile, helping the liver to digest fat better. Thanks to the richness of water and potassium, it also facilitates diuresis and promotes the elimination of liquids and waste substances ".

Contrasts aging

Chicory is a real natural supplement to counteract the signs of aging. «It provides a series of antioxidants that block free radicals and slow down the aging processes of cells and tissues. It is particularly rich in retinol, a powerful anti-aging substance that nourishes the skin from the inside. It also ensures vitamin C which promotes the production of collagen, a protein found in the skin, hair, muscles and blood vessels .

Protects the heart and bones

Chicory also has protective properties against the cardiovascular and skeletal systems. «It provides phytosterols, which fight bad blood cholesterol (LDL) and promote the 'good' one (HDL), reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. It also defends the bones and joints. In fact, it guarantees an excellent amount of calcium and vitamin K, allies for the health of the skeleton ".

Other Recipes you can read:

• What’s new in May for eating, drinking and cooking – ..

  There are many new features for May: Spring has arrived at the table too and we celebrate it (at any time). For example, for the aperitif there are new ..

• an irresistible idea for your Easter table – Italian cuisine ..

  The quick rustic Easter with delicious cured meats it is a dish that combines tradition and creativity, ideal for delighting your ..

• Pinsa Roman recipe with chicory, the recipe – Italian cuisine ..

  There Roman pinsa it is a pizza characterized by an oval shape, crispy edges and soft, but not too thick, dough. He has one recent history: it was ..