9. Chicory
Chicory, a flowering plant from the dandelion family, has been found to be rich in insoluble fibers as well as the prebiotic fiber, inulin, which aids in the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria help in the proper digestion and absorption of food, thus keeping the digestive tract healthy and alleviating conditions such as constipation and diarrhea.
There are many ways to incorporate chicory into your diet. Its flowers and leaves can be used in salads and are great sources of fiber, which add bulk to stool, making it easier to pass out. The inulin-rich chicory root on the other hand, is roasted, ground, and mixed with coffee, a practice that dates back to 19th century France.
