Feeding and Nutrition :: italian dandelion?

[laurapa]

I've found "italian dandelion" at the organic market for weeks now, and that's what I've been feeding my turtle under the advice that dandelion is an excellent source of turtle nutrition.

I did some internet research today, and it seems that italian dandelion is actually a type of chicory (Cichorium intybus).

I've been feeding him these greens every day under the advice that dandelion is a good daily food. Now that it seems I'm not ACTUALLY feeding him dandelion, my question is...

Can I still give Oliver these greens every day, or should I cut back?

[BullDog]

Italian dandelion, aka common chicory, aka Cichorium intybus is on the "feed moderately" list on the main site. That means about once a week to be safe.

It's pretty good for him calcium wise; it has a slightly higher than a 2:1 calcium phosphorous ratio, which is ideal. Not sure why it's on the moderate list though, perhaps someone else can elaborate.

[laurapa]

I should have checked that list before I posted to the forum. I love the forum so much I kind of forgot about the rest of the website!

I do wonder why chicory is a "moderate" food. Oliver seems to be doing fine and his poops look the same.

So what is it about chicory?