Chicory Root for Dogs: Safe and Nutritious?

Dried Chicory Root – Beneficial for Dogs or Not?

Chicory root, a popular plant-based food known for its rich, coffee-like flavour in human diets, raises the question of its benefits and suitability for dogs. As pet owners increasingly look for healthier, plant-based options for their furry friends, understanding chicory root’s health benefits for dogs, and precautions, is essential.

History of Use

Origins

Chicory is native to western Asia, North Africa, and Europe. It lives as a wild plant on roadsides in Europe. The plant was brought to North America by early European colonists. It is also common in China, and Australia, where it has become widely naturalised.

It is believed to be one of the oldest cultivated vegetables in human history (1, 2). One of the first descriptions of chicory root cultivation dates from around the 3rd century before Christ (BC) when the Greek Theophrastus, a student of Aristotle and one of the first botanists, described chicory and its growth (3). Beside botanists, physicians, cooks, and even poets have also written about the chicory plant, which indicates that the plant enjoyed great popularity.

Chicory roots have been historically used for 3 purposes: 1) as a food product for culinary vegetable dishes and later for the production of ingredients, 2) as a medicinal plant prepared either as a whole or as a base for extraction, and 3) for miscellaneous use, such as cosmetic applications. It has also been used as forage for animals.

Adoption into Canine Diets

The incorporation of chicory root into canine diets is a more recent development, paralleling the human trend towards more natural and plant-based diets. Its prebiotic properties and nutritional benefits have made it a noteworthy addition to dog foods, particularly in formulations aimed at improving digestive health.

Nutritional Profile

Macro and Micronutrients

• Proteins: Chicory root contains small amounts of protein essential for dog health, supporting muscle maintenance and repair.
• Fibres: High in inulin, a type of soluble fibre, chicory root promotes healthy digestion and nutrient absorption in dogs.
• Fats: While low in fats, the root supports a balanced diet for dogs with its nutrient-dense profile.

Vitamins and Minerals Chicory root is a source of vitamins B6 and C, potassium, and manganese, supporting canine immune systems, bone health, and more.

Phytonutrients Chicory root contains inulin and sesquiterpene lactones, known for their prebiotic effects and potential to enhance immune function and reduce inflammation. (4)

Contribution to Dogs’ Health and Wellbeing The inulin in chicory root supports healthy digestion, while its antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and support overall health. These benefits make chicory root a promising ingredient for dogs with conditions like obesity, joint problems, and digestive issues.

Health Benefits of Chicory Root for Dogs

Chicory root, renowned for its prebiotic properties primarily due to its high inulin content, offers a range of health benefits for dogs. Inulin is a type of soluble fibre that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can lead to improved digestion and overall health. Below, we explore the various health benefits chicory root can provide to dogs, along with the mechanisms through which these benefits are delivered.

Digestive Health

Mechanism: Inulin from chicory root acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in a dog’s gut. This can lead to an improved balance of gut flora, which is essential for healthy digestion. It can also enhance the absorption of nutrients and help regulate bowel movements.

Benefits: Regular consumption of chicory root can prevent constipation, reduce the risk of digestive disorders like IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and colitis, and may improve overall digestive function.

Immune System Support

Mechanism: A healthy gut microbiota, supported by inulin, plays a crucial role in the development and function of the immune system. By enhancing gut health, chicory root contributes to a stronger immune response against pathogens.

Benefits: Dogs consuming chicory root may experience fewer infections and an improved ability to fight off illness due to a more robust immune system.

Weight Management

Mechanism: The high fibre content in chicory root promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help control appetite and prevent overeating. Additionally, a healthy gut microbiome, supported by prebiotics, is linked to better regulation of hormones that control hunger and satiety.

Benefits: Chicory root can be a valuable part of a weight management plan for dogs, helping to prevent obesity and related health issues by regulating appetite and improving metabolism.

Heart Health

Mechanism: Inulin has been shown to positively influence lipid metabolism, potentially leading to lower levels of harmful cholesterol. This effect is partly due to the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut, which are produced when beneficial bacteria ferment inulin.

Benefits: By supporting healthier cholesterol levels and promoting overall cardiovascular health, chicory root can help reduce the risk of heart disease in dogs.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Mechanism: Chicory root contains several antioxidants, such as polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acid, coumarins, like cichoriin, and other organic acids (5), which are known to have various health-protective effects (6, 7) which can neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the joints.

Benefits: These properties make chicory root beneficial for dogs with chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, and can help protect against oxidative stress-related diseases.

Joint Health

Mechanism: The anti-inflammatory effects of chicory root can help to reduce pain and stiffness associated with joint issues in dogs. This can lead to improved mobility and a better quality of life for dogs with arthritis or other joint problems.

Benefits: Dogs may experience relief from joint discomfort and an improvement in their ability to move and enjoy physical activity.

Disease Prevention

Mechanism: The overall benefits of chicory root, including its effects on gut health, immune function, weight management, and anti-inflammatory properties, contribute to a reduced risk of various diseases, including diabetes, cancers, and heart disease. (8)

Benefits: Incorporating chicory root into a dog’s diet can be a proactive measure to help prevent the onset of chronic diseases and support long-term health.

In conclusion, the health benefits of chicory root for dogs are multifaceted, primarily driven by its high inulin content. By promoting digestive health, supporting the immune system, contributing to weight management, and offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, chicory root can play a significant role in maintaining and improving canine health. As always, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet to ensure they are suitable and beneficial for your pet’s specific health needs.

Incorporating Chicory Root into a Dog’s Diet Chicory root can be introduced to dogs in various forms, including raw, cooked, or powdered. It’s also found in many high-quality, plant-based dog foods. When adding chicory root to homemade diets, it’s essential to do so under the guidance of a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it’s done at a nutritionally appropriate level.

Recommended Amounts The quantity of chicory root to include in a dog’s diet should be minimal, serving primarily as a supplement rather than a primary ingredient to avoid any nutritional imbalances. A general guideline is to start with small quantities, such as 0.05% of the food’s dry matter basis. (9) Incremental increases, while monitoring the dog’s response, can help identify the optimal dosage.

Innovative Home-cooked Recipes Incorporating chicory root into homemade dog treats or meals can be a creative way to enhance your dog’s diet. Recipes could include chicory-infused dog biscuits or a sprinkle of chicory powder over their usual meal.

Environmental Impact

Sustainable Production Chicory root is generally considered a sustainable crop, requiring less water and land than many other agricultural products. Its cultivation can contribute positively to soil health and biodiversity.

Contribution to Biodiversity Chicory planting can enhance agricultural biodiversity, supporting soil health and reducing the need for chemical inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is chicory root safe for dogs to eat? Yes, in moderation and when properly prepared.
2. What are the nutritional benefits of chicory root for dogs? It offers dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals that support digestive health and immune function.
3. How much chicory root can I safely feed my dog? Small amounts, 0.05% of the food’s dry matter basis, as part of a balanced diet, are recommended.
4. Are there any risks or side effects of chicory root for dogs? Excessive amounts may lead to digestive upset however, chicory root is generally very safe for dogs.
5. Can chicory root meet my dog’s dietary needs? While beneficial, it should supplement a balanced diet as it does not contain all the nutrients dogs require for complete nutrition.
6. How often can I include chicory root in my dog’s diet? Chicory root can be added to a dog’s diet daily, but should included at prescribed levels and as part of a varied and balanced diet.
7. Is chicory root suitable for all dogs? Most dogs can benefit, but those with allergies to ragweed or other plants in the daisy family should consult a vet before including it in their diet.
8. Is chicory root anti-inflammatory for dogs? Yes studies showed the anti-inflammatory effect of chicory roots lasted for 3 h similar to that of aspirin. The anti-inflammatory activity can be attributed to various phytochemicals like polyphenols, flavonoids, sterols, glycosides, tannins, and terpenoids found in chicory roots. (9,10)
9. Is chicory root a dewormer for dogs? There have been numerous studies which show promising in vitro results of anthelmintic effects of chicory in both ruminants and mammals. (11, 12)
10. What is dried chicory root in dog food? Dried chicory root is derived the the chicory plant, Cichorium intybus, a member of the Asteraceae (daisy) family of plants, and added to many premium dog foods as a prebiotic and for its many health benefits including digestive health and immune health and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Chicory root can be a nutritious, plant-based addition to a dog’s diet, offering health benefits and supporting digestive wellness. However, it should be introduced carefully and in moderation, as part of a balanced diet. With its potential health benefits and low environmental impact, chicory root represents a sustainable choice for conscientious dog owners looking to diversify their pets’ diets.

Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains formula, a premium vegan dog food, includes inulin from chicory root and baobab, quality prebiotics that have been clinically researched to deliver positive health outcomes for dogs.