If you have been thinking of finally leaving the cold brews behind because they are getting too addictive and you don’t know where to stop, you might be on the right track. But leaving the coffee yumminess behind doesn’t come without jitters. So, if you are thinking “can there be nothing like coffee without caffeine?” we have heard you, and got the perfect thing that you can add to your schedule minus the caffeine withdrawal symptoms. And mind you, it is NOT matcha. While the world is moving to it and your FYP is also full of everything green, we are not talking about that here.

We present to you, a gentler substitute: chicory root coffee, a caffeine-free, gut-friendly alternative that’s been quietly gaining quite the popularity and of course, for all the right reasons.

It comes from the roasted, ground root of the chicory plant (belongs to the same family as dandelions). When it is brewed, it creates a dark, rich, aromatic beverage that gives off a nutty, earthy flavour and is surprisingly close to coffee. It has been popular in France since long and comes from parts of southern India, where it is often mixed with real coffee to soften the hit of caffeine. But when you consume it on its own, it is often caffeine free.

Why is it the best coffee alternative?

Completely jitter-free

Chicory root coffee doesn’t jostle your nervous system like normal coffee does. It feels like a warm, cozy ritual without the aftermath. There is no racing heart, no crashing of energy and definitely no feelings of anxiety.

Chicory root is high inulin which is a prebiotic fibre that supports and promotes healthy gut bacteria. When you build it in your routine, chicory can help in improving digestion, support better nutrient absorption and reduce bloating as well.

When you consume coffee (especially during late hours), the caffeine lingers in your body and messes up with your sleep schedule without you realizing it. However, consuming chicory saves you from this trouble. It lets your brain unwind naturally by bedtime (without you needing any melatonin gummies).

If you are someone who suffers a ragweed allergy or is pregnant, it is best to check with your healthcare provider before starting or consuming chicory. Otherwise, it is safe and even beneficial in moderation.

So, if you need a warm hug to start your day in place of a strong punch of caffeine chicory root coffee is the right thing for you to add to your routine.