Celery is a vegetable native to the Mediterranean Sea area. Both the stem and the leaves are used from this vegetable, which were used in the past as an aromatic herb to add flavor and aroma to all kinds of cooking recipes. That is why today we will talk about the benefits of celery. Keep reading us.
It stands out more for its satiating and dietary properties than for its macronutrient content. It has a low calorie content, providing few carbohydrates and proteins, although the former are of high quality and offer a high amount of fiber.
Thus, celery has B vitamins and vitamin K, as well as being rich in folic acid. The minerals with the greatest presence in its composition are potassium and magnesium, in addition to calcium, sodium and iron, although in smaller proportions. It is also rich in nutrients with an antioxidant effect such as polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids.
Nutritional value
Each 100 g of celery provide:
- Calories: 16 calories (11.7 kJ)
- Omega 6 fatty acids: 79mg
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Vitamin A: 449 IU
- Vitamin C: 3.1mcg
- Vitamin K: 29.3mcg
- Folate: 36 mcg
- Sugars: 1.8g
- Potassium: 260mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Water: 95.4g
Benefits of celery:
Helps fight arthritis
The anti-inflammatory properties of celery make this vegetable an ally in the treatment of arthritis. The effect of celery seed extract has been compared to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen; reducing inflammation and joint pain. In addition, it helps prevent stomach irritation after taking these anti-inflammatories.
Helps regulate hormonal changes
In addition to vitamin C, celery contains folic acid, which facilitates the regulation of hormonal cycles. It is a highly recommended food for women, both in menstrual age and in menopause. In addition, it strengthens the body during the menstrual period, thanks to its high content of water and minerals, rehydrates and remineralizes the body, slightly reducing the discomfort caused by premenstrual syndrome.
Has an alkalizing effect
Containing minerals like magnesium, iron, and sodium, celery can have a neutralizing effect on acidic foods, not to mention the fact that these minerals are necessary for essential bodily functions.
anticancer
A study found that this vegetable contains a large number of compounds that help prevent the metastasis of cancer cells, because it contains compounds called acetylenes that stop the growth of tumors.
Maintain gastrointestinal health
Celery contains fibers that promote bowel movements, helping to relieve constipation. In addition to this, it could protect the gastric mucosa and prevent the formation of ulcers. Likewise, it has been found that celery could act as an analgesic and antispasmodic, relieving stomach pain.
depurative
Another benefit of celery is that it also favors the elimination of liquids and waste retained in the body. Also, it is particularly effective in getting rid of gallstones and kidney stones.
This purifying quality acts through the liver, intestine and kidneys. By consuming celery, thanks to its diuretic effect, we will notice an increase in the amount of urine. This combats fluid retention and edema.
Helps maintain heart health
Celery is a heart-healthy food. It helps to alkalize the blood, it is a natural vasodilator and a great blood regenerator. In addition, it contains a substance called apigenin, which is found naturally in some varieties of plants, and helps prevent various cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure.
Reduces inflammation
Chronic inflammation has been linked to many diseases, including arthritis and osteoporosis. Celery and celery seeds have approximately 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that can offer protection against inflammation in the body.
Promote weight loss
Because it provides few calories and fibre, is rich in B complex vitamins and due to its diuretic action, celery could promote weight loss when combined with a healthy and balanced diet, since it helps reduce fluid retention, increases satiety and provides vitamins that are important for metabolism.
increase sexuality
It is beneficial for weak sexuality, without causing uncontrollable desire like some pharmaceutical drugs such as viagra and the like.
Reduce the cholesterol
According to researchers at the University of Chicago, celery lowers cholesterol levels by up to 7 points with just 2 stalks a day. It also helps increase the secretion of bile acids, which helps remove cholesterol from the body.
reduce stress
Celery is high in magnesium, and this mineral is essential for reducing stress. In addition, it is rich in essential oils that will calm the nervous system.
How to choose and preserve celery
When we go to buy celery, we must choose them with their thick and firm stalks, crisp and light green in color. The leaves should be green, fresh or just wilted. It must not have stains, and they must not be soft.
It keeps for two or three days in the fridge; the ideal is to wrap it in a damp paper. To refresh it we can submerge the base of the stem in water. Celery can be frozen by first blanching it for 3 minutes in boiling water. But keep in mind that when you thaw it, it will no longer be crispy.
fasting celery juice
To prepare it, blend 1 stalk of celery with 1 glass of water. The mixture should be drunk on an empty stomach, so that it creates a feeling of satiety before eating. It is recommended to drink it immediately without added sugars.
Among some of the benefits of fasting celery are:
- Improves heart health.
- Stimulates circulation.
- Prevents cancer.
- Protects the skin.
- Detoxifies the body.
- It is anti-inflammatory.
- Boosts immunity.