Why Chicory Root Fiber?
Chicory Root Fiber and Reduction of Visceral Fat
The Chicory Root plant is a great source of Inulin fiber. Inulin fiber is a prebiotic, meaning it supports the good bacteria in our gut, and the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA).
Butyrate
As Chicory Root fiber is broken down in our systems it increases our SCFAs, specifically butyrate. Butyrate has many health benefits. It is a fuel source for our cells to maintain GI health and integrity. Butyrate also lowers systemic inflammation, and works as an anti-oxidant.
Fat Storage
Studies have also shown that inulin, from chicory root plant, supports the reduction of Visceral Fat. Visceral fat is a type of fat that can be quite harmful to our health. There are three ways the body stores fat:
1: Essential fats- fats that are essential for life. Essential fats support vitamin absorption, proper hormone and brain function, bone health, immune function, temperature regulation, etc.
2: Subcutaneous Fats- This is the fat right underneath our skin and makes up the majority of our fat
3: Visceral Fats- This type of fat is the most dangerous. It is a deeper storage of fat that can surround our major organs like the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. There are many possible associated risks of elevated visceral fat in the body, for instance:
- Type II Diabetes
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- PCOS
- Hypertension
- Dyslipedemia
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Hormone Imbalance
Visceral Fat
Visceral fat is not just stored excess fat, it actually works like a functioning organ. Visceral fat releases pro-inflammatory signals which increases our risk to chronic inflammatory conditions in the body, which is the root of most disease.
Our best solution to decreasing Visceral Fat is, and always will be, Lifestyle Medicine. We can start by eating healthier and fueling the body with low-inflammatory protein and health fats. Intake enough plants like chicory root which will act as a great source of fuel for our body, produce SCFA and support healthy bacteria.