Chicory has a number of useful organic compounds that can help to combat the effects of macular degeneration. Most notably, the fructans found within chicory have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants basically seek out and destroy the free radicals in our body, the natural byproducts of cellular metabolism that can cause cellular mutation and oxidative stress. Those same free radicals are largely responsible for macular degeneration in our eyes, so by boosting your antioxidant levels with chicory, your vision remains protected. Chicory leaves and roots can both be used, the former as a salad green and the latter as a coffee substitute.
Chicory
