Does Chicory Reduce Cholesterol? A Deep Dive into the Evidence

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a 2024 clinical trial, chicory root powder showed a significant impact on cholesterol levels in certain patient groups. The question, 'Does chicory reduce cholesterol?', is supported by growing research focused on its high soluble fiber content.

Quick Summary

An exploration of chicory's potential to lower cholesterol, focusing on its prebiotic fiber, inulin. It examines scientific studies, compares it with other fibers like psyllium, and provides practical ways to incorporate it into a diet for heart health.

Key Points

Rich in Inulin: Chicory root is a potent source of inulin, a type of soluble, prebiotic fiber that benefits cholesterol levels.
Modest Cholesterol Reduction: Studies show chicory can modestly reduce total and LDL ('bad') cholesterol, primarily by binding to bile acids.
Supports Gut Health: As a prebiotic, chicory's inulin feeds beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to better lipid metabolism.
Numerous Benefits: Beyond cholesterol, chicory offers antioxidant properties, helps regulate blood sugar, and may support weight loss due to its fiber content.
Versatile Consumption: Chicory can be consumed in various forms, including as a roasted root coffee substitute, in salads, as a cooked vegetable, or as a dietary supplement.

Understanding Chicory and its Key Components

Chicory, a perennial plant with bright blue flowers, has been valued for centuries for its medicinal properties and as a coffee substitute. While all parts of the plant are edible, the root is the most prized for its high concentration of inulin, a type of soluble dietary fiber. Inulin is a fructan, meaning it's composed of fructose molecules that the human body cannot digest. This undigested fiber is what makes chicory so interesting for heart and gut health.

The Role of Soluble Fiber in Lowering Cholesterol

Soluble fiber plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels. When it enters the small intestine, it dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance. This gel does two important things for cholesterol reduction:

Traps Cholesterol: The gel traps cholesterol and bile acids, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This forces the liver to use more of the body's cholesterol to produce new bile acids, thereby helping to lower total cholesterol and LDL ('bad') cholesterol.
Modulates Gut Microbiota: As a prebiotic, chicory inulin feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved overall health, including better lipid metabolism, which can indirectly affect cholesterol levels.

Scientific Evidence on Chicory and Cholesterol

Numerous studies, including both human and animal trials, have investigated the effect of chicory and its inulin on lipid profiles. The results are largely positive, although the magnitude of the effect can vary.

Human and Animal Studies

Human Clinical Trial (2024): A controlled randomized trial on hypertensive patients with high cholesterol found that chicory root powder intake for 30 days significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels, while also increasing HDL ('good') cholesterol.
Human Study (2016): A placebo-controlled trial on patients with type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol reported that enriched chicory inulin helped improve their liver enzymes and calcium absorption.
Animal Studies: Research on rats has shown that chicory's water-soluble extract can reduce cholesterol uptake in the gut. Further studies in diabetic rats confirmed the herb's hypolipidemic properties, showing a decrease in plasma glucose and total cholesterol. A mouse study from 2015 also concluded that chicory has an atheroprotective role, reducing cholesterol accumulation in the aorta.

Limitations and Considerations

While promising, it's important to acknowledge that the cholesterol-lòwering effect of chicory is often described as modest and most effective when combined with other dietary and lifestyle changes. Many studies focus on concentrated inulin supplements rather than whole chicory, and more research on whole chicory's specific impact is still needed.

Chicory vs. Other Cholesterol-Lowering Fibers

To put chicory's potential in perspective, let's compare it to another well-known fiber, psyllium husk.


Feature	Chicory (Inulin Fiber)	Psyllium Husk
Primary Fiber Type	Soluble (fermentable prebiotic)	Soluble and insoluble (non-fermentable)
Cholesterol Reduction	Modest effect, primarily through trapping bile acids and promoting healthy gut bacteria	Generally more effective and more consistent results
Gut Impact	Acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria	Creates a non-fermentable gel that bulks stool
Digestive Side Effects	Can cause gas or bloating, especially with higher intake	Can cause gas, but often less fermentable than inulin
Nutritional Profile	Contains antioxidants and other nutrients in whole food form	Fiber supplement with targeted benefits

How to Incorporate Chicory into Your Diet

Chicory can be added to your daily routine in several ways:

Roasted Chicory Root Coffee: Brew roasted and ground chicory root as a caffeine-free coffee alternative. It has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
Salad Greens: Use chicory leaves, also known as endive, in salads. The bitterness can be a refreshing addition to your greens.
Cooked Vegetable: Braise or sauté chicory leaves to reduce their bitterness and enjoy them as a side dish.
Inulin Supplements: Chicory-derived inulin is widely available in powdered and capsule form and is also added to many packaged foods.

Conclusion: A Beneficial Addition, Not a Cure-All

So, does chicory reduce cholesterol? The scientific evidence suggests that yes, it can, but its effects are generally modest. Chicory root's soluble fiber, inulin, helps lower total and LDL cholesterol by trapping bile acids and modulating the gut microbiome. However, it is not a magical cure and works best as part of a broader, heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet rich in other fibers, regular exercise, and medical supervision for those with high cholesterol. For those looking to support their heart health naturally, incorporating chicory—whether as a coffee substitute, in salads, or as a supplement—can be a beneficial addition to the diet.

Remember to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or dietary regimen, especially if you have an existing health condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicory's soluble fiber, inulin, forms a gel in the digestive tract that binds to cholesterol and bile acids, preventing their absorption. This forces the liver to use more cholesterol to produce new bile, thereby lowering overall cholesterol levels.

While both contain soluble fiber, psyllium is generally considered more effective and consistent at lowering cholesterol. Chicory's effect is often more modest and may work in different ways due to its prebiotic properties.

Yes, consuming larger quantities of chicory or inulin can cause digestive side effects such as gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort in some individuals. It's recommended to start with a smaller amount and increase gradually under professional guidance.

Chicory coffee contains the soluble fiber from the root, so it can contribute to a modest reduction in cholesterol. However, the effects are more likely to be seen with more concentrated forms, like supplements, and should be part of a healthy diet.

Chicory is generally safe for most people. However, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and people with allergies to ragweed or birch pollen should consult a doctor before consuming it.

Studies investigating the effects of chicory inulin have used various amounts, but the optimal intake can vary by individual and product. It is always best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Yes, some studies suggest that chicory root fiber may aid in weight loss by helping to regulate appetite and reduce overall calorie intake, primarily due to its high fiber content promoting feelings of fullness.