Chicory Root Fibre
Review the scientific evidence and bio-availability of Chicory Root Fibre, followed by our curated database of formulations.
Chicory Root Fibre (Cichorium intybus) is a soluble dietary fiber extracted from the herbaceous chicory plant, primarily composed of inulin—a complex carbohydrate belonging to the fructan family. Historically utilized in ancient Egypt for its health-supportive properties and later as a popular caffeine-free coffee substitute in 19th-century Europe, it is now recognized in nutritional neuroscience as a potent “psychobiotic” substrate. It serves as a non-digestible food source that selectively supports the growth of health-promoting bacteria in the colon.
Clinical Benefits & Mechanism of Action
Chicory Root Fibre functions as a systemic modulator of the microbiome-gut-brain axis through several distinct physiological pathways:
- Selective Bifidogenic Effect: Inulin-type fructans bypass the upper digestive tract and undergo fermentation in the large intestine. This process selectively supports the population of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which are associated with general emotional well-being and healthy stress resilience.
- Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Synthesis: The fermentation of chicory fibre supports the production of SCFAs, specifically butyrate, acetate, and propionate. These metabolites can interact with cellular signaling networks or communicate via the vagus nerve to support normal, healthy microglial function and neurological balance.
- Support of Incretin Hormones: Chicory root consumption has been shown to support the natural release of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and Peptide YY (PYY). These hormones play a critical role in natural satiety signaling and support healthy hippocampal plasticity.
- Glycemic Stability: By supporting a normal rate of gastric emptying and steady glucose absorption, chicory root fibre helps maintain balanced insulin responses, contributing to sustained cognitive energy and long-term metabolic health.
Scientific Sources & Clinical Trials
- Does the definition of human ultra-processed foods apply to dog and cat foods? A review of pet food processing techniques, their impact on health, and a call for pet food processing classification.
- Fibre supplementation alters the gastrointestinal microbiome, the microbial metabolites and indicators of neurodegeneration in a mouse model of Alzheimer´s disease.
- Prebiotic intake reduces the waking cortisol response and alters emotional bias in healthy volunteers.
