Okay so I need to firstly admit that I am a huge coffee fan. I remember first trying it and not really liking the taste much at all, more the effects it gave me to power through long college days!
Then, somewhere along the way the taste was the best part and I was hooked. Everything about coffee and its origins dating back to 800. A. D really makes me enjoy exploring different coffee tastes.
So this isn’t easy…. but I have needed a much needed break. from coffee.
I think a cleanse on any luxury is a really powerful thing to try to increase your gratitude for it and let your body rest from stimulants such as caffeine. I will explore more in another blog, but recently coffee has been having more of a negative impact in my own lifestyle than it was enjoyable. This month, I am quitting coffee and turning to chicory instead. Here’s why…
Chicory may be known to reduce inflammation is a normal immune system response, chronic inflammation of the gut is thought to contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. –
Day 1 began today of my first morning “coffee” and I have began with this chicory and coffee essence bought from Tesco. I really like the taste of a teaspoon of this chicory mixed in with hot soya milk and a teaspoon of sugar and it must say it is a very similar coffee experience! I taste flavours of nuttiness and almost like a woody aftertaste which has taken a little getting used to.
So what is chicory and why might it be a good coffee substitute if you are looking to reduce your caffeine intake? Here are some reasons why..
Chicory is a plant from the dandelion family that is characterized by a hairy stem and light purple flowers with leaves that can be used in salads!
Chicory acts as a prebiotic, meaning that it feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These helpful bacteria play a role in reducing inflammation, fighting harmful bacteria, and improving mineral absorption (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).
A 4-week study in 44 adults with constipation found that taking 12 grams of chicory inulin per day helped soften stool and significantly increased bowel movement frequency, compared with taking a placebo (6Trusted Source).
So here goes of 30 days of ditching the coffee, and introducing chicory…
Wish me luck coffee lovers…
& if you feel like this would work as part of your lifestyle too –
Get in touch and let me know how you get on!
Katie x
