Three Cheers for Crispy, Crunchy, Cool Celery!

The Four Health Benefits of Celery

by Sally Cross, Mind, Body & Life Coach.

1. Celery is a great source of important antioxidants.

Antioxidants protect cells, blood vessels, and organs from oxidative damage. Celery contains vitamin C, beta carotene and flavonoids, also at least 12 additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients, all found in a single 10 calorie stalk! Celery is also a great source of phytonutrients, which reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, cells, blood vessels and organs.

2. Celery reduces inflammation.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to many illnesses, including arthritis and osteoporosis. Celery and celery seeds have about 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that offer protection against inflammation in the body.

3. Celery supports digestion.

High in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients, offering protection to the entire digestive tract. Pectin-based polysaccharides in celery, including a compound known as apiuman, have been shown to decrease instances of stomach ulcers, improve the lining of the stomach and modulate stomach secretions. Also the high water content of celery, almost 95%, along with the soluble and insoluble fibre, all support a healthy digestive tract.

4. Celery is rich in vitamins and minerals with a low glycemic index.

Containing Vitamins A, K, and C, potassium and folate, it is also low in sodium and registers low on the glycemic index, which helps balance your blood sugar. With minerals like magnesium, iron and sodium, which are essential for body function, celery can have a neutralising effect on acidic foods.

Tips for Buying and Storing Celery

Sturdy stalks. Look for celery that has sturdy, upright stalks. They should snap easily not bend.

Crisp leaves. Leaves should be crisp and fresh, ranging in colour from pale to bright green. Avoid celery with yellow or brown patches.

Wait to chop. Chop celery just before cooking or serving to maintain nutrients. Even celery that has been chopped and stored for just a few hours will lose nutrients.

Steam it.�Steamed celery will retain flavour and almost all of its nutrients.

Eat in five to seven days. Eat fresh celery within five to seven days to enjoy its maximum nutritional benefits.

Eat the leaves. Don’t discard the leaves, that’s where celery has the most calcium, potassium and vitamin C. But because they don’t store well, consume celery leaves within a day or two of purchase.

In addition to its many health benefits, celery is a versatile veggie. You can eat it raw or cooked, and it makes a great addition to smoothies, stir-fries, soups, steamed, baked and in juices.

Info sourced from ‘Healthline’