It’s green so celery must be good for you. Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that’s mostly used in soups and salads. What celery lacks in taste it more than makes up for in its high nutritional value-boosting both short term and long-term health. Here are all the reasons you should incorporate more celery into your diet.
1. Great source of antioxidants
Celery is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect cells, blood vessels, and organs from damage. It contains vitamin C, beta carotene, flavonoids, and at least 12 additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients in a single stalk.
2. Reduces inflammation
Celery and celery seeds have approximately 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that can offer protection against inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to many illnesses including arthritis and osteoporosis.
Consuming celery can provide you with instant relief from inflammatory problems such as arthritis pain, muscle pain, joint pain, and inflammatory bowel disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce acne. Health And Nutrition: Foods That Fight Inflammation
3. Supports digestion
Celery has a high water content – almost 95%– as well as generous amounts of soluble and insoluble fibre all of which contribute to a healthy digestive tract and keep you regular. It softens stool and makes it pass through the digestive tract easily.
The high water content in celery can increase fluid levels in the body that assist in breaking down foods for nutrient absorption.
Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients also offer protection to the entire digestive tract. One study found that it may also guard against gastric ulcers. 8 Ways To Ease The Symptoms Of Acidity
4. Rich in vitamins and minerals with a low glycemic index
Celery is nutrient-packed with vitamins including A, K, and C plus minerals like potassium and folate.
It is also low in sodium and low on the glycemic index which has a slow, steady effect on blood sugar. It is useful for people who need to monitor their blood sugar levels with studies suggesting that it may be effective at reducing blood glucose levels.
5. Has an alkalizing effect
Because of minerals like magnesium, iron, and sodium, celery can have a neutralizing effect on acidic foods. The absence of these minerals results in an acidic build-up in your cells, causing acidity, fatigue, reduced energy levels, and diseases.
Daily celery intake may restore normal acidic levels releasing energy in your body and revitalizing your immune system.
6. May support heart health
Celery contains numerous nutrients that are important for health. It contains folate and vitamin K both of which are required for the formation of red blood cells and effective clotting. It has flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and protective effects on the cardiovascular system.
Diets high in fibrous foods like celery are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. This high-fibre content helps reduce bad cholesterol by attaching itself to cholesterol particles in the digestive tract and preventing their reabsorption into the bloodstream. It also has a chemical compound, phthalide, which can reduce cholesterol levels. Consuming 1-2 stalks of celery daily may reduce bad cholesterol and the negative effects associated with it.
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7. Blood pressure management
Phthalides are also thought to relax artery wall tissues promoting healthy blood flow. This increased blood flow may lead to lower blood pressure.
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8. May improve memory
A 2017 animal study found that celery extract appeared to improve cognitive function associated with ageing and depression.
Another study also found positive results for participants with dementia and Alzheimer’s. The particular extract in celery can potentially be used to prevent Alzheimer’s from developing in the first place.
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9. Cancer prevention
The antioxidants in celery help prevent oxidative stress which has been identified as a contributor to cancer.
10. Keeps the body hydrated
The high water content in celery hydrates the body. A well-hydrated body keeps hair healthy, skin glowing, digestive tract healthy and other organs properly functioning.
Dehydration can cause fatigue, thirst, dry skin, headaches, constipation, less urination, dizziness, and muscle cramps. Lifestyle & Health: The Benefits of Staying Hydrated
11. Increase your sex drive
One study found that two pheromones found in celery can actually boost arousal levels.
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12. Improve your vision
One of the most important health benefits of celery is its ability to improve and protect your vision. A daily intake of its stalks will provide you with enough vitamin A to keep your vision long-lasting and sharp. Vitamin A deficiency may accelerate the onset of age-related vision loss as a result of the retina weakening over time.
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Tips for buying and storing celery
- Buy sturdy celery stalks with crisp leaves.
- Wait to chop celery just before cooking or serving to maintain nutrients.
- Steam it to retain its flavour.
- Eat fresh celery within 5-7 days to enjoy maximum nutritional benefits
- Eat the leaves, don’t discard them. Some key nutrients including calcium, potassium, and vitamin C are there.
Consume celery within 1-2 days of purchase because it doesn’t store well. Try it raw, cooked, steamed, in smoothies, stir-fries, soups and juices, or even baked.
Check out this piece on another nutritious green vegetable Benefits of spinach. Also, check out 10 Reasons Why You Should Be Taking Beetroot
