Coffee and Chicory, Brewed: A Low-Impact Beverage for Glycemic Management
When it comes to managing blood sugar levels, beverages matter just as much as solid foods. Today, we’re exploring brewed coffee and chicory, a popular beverage choice that offers interesting glycemic properties.
Glycemic Profile
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Brewed coffee and chicory has a moderate Glycemic Index (GI) of 50, placing it right at the boundary between low and medium GI foods. However, what makes this beverage particularly interesting for those monitoring blood glucose is its Glycemic Load (GL) of 0.
This zero glycemic load occurs because despite having a moderate GI rating, brewed coffee and chicory contains virtually no carbohydrates to impact blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Breakdown
Per 100g serving of brewed coffee and chicory:
- Calories: 1 kcal
- Protein: 0.12g
- Fat: 0.02g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Net Carbs: 0g
Why Coffee and Chicory Has Zero Impact
Despite having a moderate GI of 50, brewed coffee and chicory has virtually no impact on blood glucose levels because it contains essentially no carbohydrates to convert to glucose. This makes it an excellent beverage choice for people with diabetes or those following low-carb diets.
The Chicory Factor
Chicory root has been used as a coffee substitute or additive for centuries. It adds a slightly woody, nutty flavor to coffee without adding carbohydrates. Chicory contains inulin, a type of soluble fiber that can actually help stabilize blood sugar levels rather than spike them.
Considerations When Consuming
It’s important to note that this nutritional profile applies to plain brewed coffee and chicory without any additives. Adding sugar, honey, or milk will significantly change both the glycemic index and load of your beverage.
Ideal For:
- People with diabetes looking for zero-carb beverages
- Those following ketogenic or low-carb diets
- Anyone wanting to enjoy coffee with less caffeine (chicory reduces the overall caffeine content)
- People looking to stabilize blood glucose levels throughout the day
Conclusion
Brewed coffee and chicory represents an excellent beverage choice for those monitoring their glycemic response. With virtually no calories or carbohydrates, it provides the pleasure of coffee with minimal impact on blood sugar levels. As always, individual responses may vary, and it’s best to monitor your own glycemic response to any food or beverage.