Let’s find out ‘Is Eating Chicory During Pregnancy Safe?” A woody, herbaceous plant called chicory is used as a seasoning in a variety of dishes. You may wish to drink chicory during pregnancy as a substitute for coffee because it tastes similar to coffee and is frequently used as a caffeine-free choice.
What Is Chicory?
An herbaceous, woody plant known as the dandelion’s relative is called chicory. Although the herb is indigenous to Europe, it is grown all over the world. Many foods also use chicory as a flavoring ingredient.
In various beverages, including some coffee beverages, it is also used as a coffee substitute. Chicory’s leaves, flowers, roots, and buds are just a few of the various parts that have medicinal uses. The herb has a high nutritional content, therefore using it in moderation might be healthy for you.
Is Eating Chicory During Pregnancy Safe?
Chicory is not safe to ingest in significant amounts when pregnant, according to research and studies. If there is no alternative, though, you can speak with your doctor and consume a limited amount of chicory while pregnant.
Strong uterine stimulants like chicory can cause uterine contractions during pregnancy, jeopardizing both your health and the health of your unborn child. Chicory can cause menstruation during pregnancy and cause abortion if consumed in excessive quantities. Even though chicory has many health advantages, you should avoid ingesting it or drinking chicory tea while you are pregnant.
Health Benefits Of Chicory During Pregnancy
Even if you only ingest a tiny amount of the plant during pregnancy, chicory’s high nutritional content can still offer you a number of health and medical benefits.
1. Relieves Digestive Problems:
Inulin, a potent probiotic, is found in chicory. Thus, consuming the herb during pregnancy aids in preventing a number of digestive and intestinal issues, such as indigestion, constipation, heartburn, acid reflux, and acidity.
2. Prevents Cancer:
According to research, chicory extract reduces tumor growth and lowers the risk of developing a number of cancers while a woman is pregnant. The herb has antioxidant and anti-tumor capabilities because of the fructans it contains. Additionally, the herb’s phytochemicals and polyphenols can lower the risk of colorectal and breast cancer when pregnant.
3. Minimizes Arthritis Pain:
Chicory’s anti-inflammatory qualities help to reduce pregnancy-related osteoarthritis pain. The plant efficiently aids in providing relief from aches, muscle pains, and joint pain.
According to research, the inulin found in chicory may boost the bone mineral density and calcium absorption.
4. Promotes Kidney Health:
5. Boosts Immunity:
Throughout pregnancy, chicory boosts immunity. While pregnant, the herb’s antibacterial properties guard you against bacterial illnesses. Other nutrients and phytochemicals function as antioxidants to lower the chance of developing heart disease and other illnesses when pregnant.
Side Effects of Eating Chicory During Pregnancy
Chicory eating during pregnancy has a number of health benefits, but if you consume too much of it, you may experience some negative side effects. Common side effects include the following:
- Appetite suppression
- Substantial weight loss
- Difficulty in breathing
- Wheezing
- Sudden uterine contractions during pregnancy
- Menstruation during pregnancy
- Abortion or miscarriage
- Skin inflammation
- Itching
- Fatigue
- Bloating and gas
- Abdominal pain
- Drowsiness
Some FAQs
1. Who should not consume chicory?
The actual cause of a negative reaction is not entirely apparent. However, studies suggest that persons who are sensitive to skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, birch pollen, or lettuce may be more prone to allergic reactions when exposed to high doses of chicory.
2. Is chicory toxic?
Chicory has been in use for a long time and is considered non-toxic. However, a few studies reveal that when consumed in highly concentrated forms, chicory might induce toxic reactions.
Chicory is a herbaceous plant known to possess several health-promoting properties. For example, it promotes digestion and kidney health and reduces arthritis pain. Consuming chicory outside pregnancy is considered safe. However, its intake in large quantities during pregnancy is unsafe. Hence, consult your healthcare provider to know if you can consume chicory during pregnancy in small amounts. The doctor will evaluate your and your unborn baby’s health and recommend a safe amount accordingly. You can also discuss with your doctor if you can consume chicory extract when pregnant.
3. Is Eating Chicory During Pregnancy Safe?
Chicory fiber, when consumed in foods, is probably safe to consume while pregnant, though moderation is advised.
4. Is too much of Chicory During Pregnancy good?
Large oral doses of chicory may not be safe to consume while pregnant. Chicory may cause a miscarriage and the onset of menstruation. Chicory usage during nursing: There isn’t enough trustworthy information to determine whether chicory use while nursing is safe. Keep to the recommended dietary levels to be on the safe side.
