Second up in this new series we’re talking CELERY – a nutritional powerhouse food! From reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion to being a natural diuretic and having high levels of Vitamin K, celery is a nutritional powerhouse that can elevate your health.
What’s so Special About Celery?
Celery, one of the staples of most kitchens, is a perfect for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. It is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can find in the vegetable aisle!
Celery – a Nutritional Powerhouse
Vitamin K
Not many people know the true power of this vitamin, but it plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. Without it, your body would have trouble healing cuts and bruises, and your bones could become brittle over time.
Furthermore, studies have shown that regular consumption of Vitamin K can reduce the risk of heart disease and even some cancers.
It also protects elasticity and supports the tightening of your skin!
So if you want to protect your body from potential harm, add some celery to your diet to ensure adequate Vitamin K intake.
Antioxidants & Anti-inflammatory
This humble green vegetable packs a punch and has been shown to provide relief for asthmatics.
Celery’s high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties have been proven to decrease inflammation in the lungs, which can ultimately decrease the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
Polysaccharides
This humble vegetable contains a powerful compound known as polysaccharides, which have been shown to have a plethora of health benefits.
These compounds can help boost immunity, improve digestion, and even reduce inflammation. But the benefits don’t stop there. Drinking celery juice has also been linked to improved skin health and a reduction in blood pressure.
Luteolin
Luteolin, a flavonoid found in celery, has been shown to reduce inflammation and protect neurons from damage. This is particularly important as we age, because inflammation and oxidative stress can contribute to cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Phthalides
Phthalides are phytochemicals that have been shown to have impressive health benefits, including reducing blood pressure, improving circulation, and even potentially preventing certain types of cancer.
Phenolic acids
Celery has been found to contain Phenolic acids, a group of compounds that have been shown to have powerful health benefits.
These compounds are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them excellent for promoting overall health and well-being.
Apigenin
Celery also contains a powerful flavonoid called apigenin. This compound has been touted for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
Studies have shown that apigenin can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cell death.
In addition, it has been found to reduce inflammation in the body, which can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
The best part? Apigenin is abundant in celery, making it an easy and accessible way to incorporate this healthful compound into your diet.
Tryptophan
Celery also contains an essential amino acid called tryptophan. Tryptophan is crucial for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and can even improve sleep patterns.
By ingesting celery, you’re not only fueling your body with vital vitamins and minerals, but you’re also benefiting from tryptophan’s mood-boosting and sleep-enhancing properties.
Celery – A Nutritional Powerhouse that supports…
Kidney Health
As a traditional botanical medicine, celery has been highly regarded as a kidney tonic that can enhance kidney health.
Its abundant nutrients, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, confer numerous health benefits on the kidneys by fortifying their structure and reducing oxidative stress and damage.
These properties make celery a reliable ally in the fight against kidney disorders, such as renal failure, nephritis, and urinary tract infections. Therefore, incorporating celery into your diet can provide your kidneys with the essential nutrients they require to function optimally.
Bladder Health
Celery has been found to have therapeutic properties that support bladder health.
Research shows that celery has a diuretic effect, which helps to flush out harmful substances and toxins from the body. Its high water content also helps to keep the urinary tract hydrated, preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria.
In addition, celery is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help to reduce inflammation in the bladder and prevent infections.
Heart Health
When it comes to heart health, there’s one unknown hero that hasn’t received enough credit: celery.
Celery contains two critical components that could lower your risk of heart disease: phenolic acid and phthalides.
Phenolic acids have been linked to reducing inflammation and potentially preventing plaque buildup in your arteries.
Meanwhile, phthalides are responsible for relaxing your blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure.
Eases Joint Pain
Celery is the ultimate game-changer for those suffering from joint pain. Its powerful anti-inflammatory properties have been studied and proven effective in reducing inflammation in the body, the root cause of joint pain.
Unlike traditional pain medications that come with a host of negative side effects, celery is a natural alternative that won’t harm your body in the long run.
Whether you’re an athlete recovering from an injury or simply feeling the effects of aging on your joints, incorporating celery into your diet is a simple and effective way to manage pain and improve your overall health.
Don’t let joint pain hold you back any longer – give celery a try and feel the difference for yourself.
Celery Tips
Washing Celery
When it comes to celery, there is no doubt that organic is the way to go. Not only does it taste better, but it is also free of harmful pesticides and chemicals.
However, regardless of whether you choose organic or not, it is important to always wash each celery stalk in cool water before consuming. This step may seem insignificant, but it can make a significant difference in your health. Washing celery removes any dirt, bacteria, or residue that may be present on the surface.
Selecting and Storing Celery
When selecting and storing celery, there are some essential tips you must follow to ensure that you get the most out of this vegetable.
First, always choose crisp, brightly colored celery stalks with sturdy ribs and fresh leaves.
Second, remember to store celery in the refrigerator at all times, either wrapped in a damp paper towel or in the crisper drawer. By doing so, you will keep the celery fresh and crisp for up to two weeks.
Don’t let your celery go to waste; follow these simple tips to ensure that you have fresh, flavorful celery whenever you need it.
Keeping it Fresh!
For those stalks that have already wilted, don’t throw them away yet. By soaking them in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes, you can revive the limp stalks and make them crisp again.
Freezing Celery
Freezing celery is one of the best ways to preserve it for an extended period, and it’s particularly great for cooking purposes.
By freezing it, you can have a constant supply of celery available for all your recipes, including soups, stews, stir-fries, and more.
Moreover, by using this technique, you can avoid wasting any leftovers that might otherwise end up in the trash.
Vegetable Broth
The next time you’re whipping up a batch of vegetable broth, don’t forget to toss in some celery stalks for an extra boost of both taste and nutrition. Not only does this versatile veggie bring a subtle yet flavorful taste to your broth, it also contains a plethora of health benefits that you don’t want to miss out on.
And if you’ve got some limp celery lurking in your fridge, don’t think about throwing it away! Limp celery is still good for your soup or for making a flavorful and nutritious broth, so don’t waste it.
And since we’ve been talking about this, why not …
Grow Your Own!
If you’re looking to add some fresh, crisp celery to your daily meals, why not take matters into your own hands and grow it yourself? Don’t let a lack of outdoor space deter you – celery is an easy plant to grow indoors!
Plus, growing your own celery guarantees a fresh supply and eliminates the need for trips to the store. And if you’re worried about not having a green thumb, fear not! Celery is a forgiving plant that can withstand some neglect. Start your own celery garden today, whether it be in a pot on your windowsill or in a raised bed in your backyard. You won’t regret it!
The whole plant!
When we think about celery, we often think about the juicy and crunchy stalks that are commonly used in salads and soups. Many people overlook the leaves and discard them as waste, but they actually pack a nutritional punch, too.
Celery leaves are rich in vitamin A, vitamin K, and calcium. They also contain antioxidants that can help fight against free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
By incorporating celery leaves into your diet, you can reap the benefits of this often ignored part of the plant. So next time you buy a bunch of celery, don’t toss away these nutrient-rich leaves! They are packed with flavor and have a plethora of culinary uses.
- add them to a salad for a burst of fresh taste
- chop them up and toss them into soups and stews for a hint of added texture
- blend them up with some herbs and olive oil to make a delicious and nutrient-packed pesto sauce
So don’t let those celery leaves wither away in the back of your fridge.
The good news is that incorporating celery into your diet is incredibly easy.
Whether you like to snack on celery sticks, add it to your salads, or use it as a base for soups and stews — there are countless ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With the benefits it offers, there’s no better time to start adding more celery to your meals and reaping the rewards for your health. (Nutrition facts)
So go ahead, grab a stalk or two, and enjoy all of the delicious and nutritious benefits that celery has to offer!
Here’s to eating well!
Check out the entire series, “What’s so special about _______?”
#1 Apples, #2 Celery, #3 Eggs, #4 Spinach, #5 Beans, #6 Dairy, #7 Protein, #8 Nuts – Lastly, #9 Whole Grains