Apium graveolens var. dulce
Celery is one of those vegetables people either love or avoid completely. But the truth is: even if you’re not a fan of the taste, your body will thank you for making peace with it. It works like a broom for your intestines, a tonic for your kidneys, and a balm for your adrenals. It’s practically calorie-free and packed with benefits.
What Makes Celery Special?
It’s one of the lowest-calorie vegetables on Earth — made mostly of water and fiber, but also full of vitamins (K, C, A, B9) and minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium). On top of that, it contains phytonutrients that support the liver, digestion, and fight inflammation.
Health Benefits of Celery
1. A natural internal cleanser
Thanks to its high water, fiber, and potassium content, celery has a gentle diuretic effect and helps flush out toxins. In short: it cleans you out — gently and thoroughly.
2. Supports kidneys and liver
Celery stimulates bile flow and helps detoxify the body. It’s the friend you want after a heavy weekend.
3. Regulates blood pressure
Studies show that phthalides in celery can help relax blood vessels and mildly lower blood pressure.
4. Improves digestion and reduces bloating
Many nutritionists recommend celery for digestive issues — it’s alkaline, aids digestion, and soothes the gut.
Nutritional Value of Celery (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 14 kcal |
| Protein | 0.7 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Vitamin K | 29.3 µg |
| Vitamin C | 3.1 mg |
| Folate | 36 µg |
| Potassium | 260 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
Celery Myths and Facts
“Celery has negative calories!”
Not quite — no food truly has negative calories. But yes, digesting celery does burn more energy than it gives, so… there’s something to it.
“Celery is bland and boring”
In the hands of a creative cook, it becomes hummus, smoothies, soup bases, and crunchy snack sticks with avocado dip.
Celery Curiosities
- In ancient Egypt, celery was believed to have magical and medicinal powers.
- In Ayurveda, it’s used to calm Vata imbalance and support detoxification.
- Celery contains apigenin – a plant compound with anti-inflammatory and anticancer potential.
How to Use Celery in Your Diet?
- Celery juice on an empty stomach – a trendy but genuinely digestion-supporting routine.
- Creamy celery soup with coconut milk and ginger – warming and nutrient-rich.
- Celery-apple-walnut salad – a crunchy classic making a comeback.
- Cut into sticks for dipping in hummus or guacamole – the snack that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together.
Summary
Celery is not just something to float in vegetable broth. It’s a natural tonic for your body — cleansing, hydrating, supportive, and nourishing. If you don’t love it yet, try it in a new form. Your body will thank you.
What about you? Do you drink celery juice? Toss it into smoothies? Or maybe you’ve found a way to love it raw? Share your recipe or trick – you might inspire someone else!
