Celery: Surprising Benefits and Practical Uses – Insights by Știrinoi.com

Celery (Apium graveolens) is often overlooked, but the good news is that it’s packed with nutrients. On Știrinoi.com, we’ve delved into the latest science—from antioxidants and inflammation control to impacts on blood pressure, digestion, and metabolism.

1. Health Benefits of Celery

1. Powerful antioxidants

   Celery is rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, flavonoids, and at least 12 more antioxidants , protecting cells and organs from oxidative damage.

2. Anti-inflammatory action

   It contains 20–25 anti-inflammatory compounds , beneficial for arthritis, heart disease, and immune-related conditions.

3. Digestive health support

   Apiuman polysaccharides and fiber (5 g per cup) protect stomach lining and aid bowel movements .

4. Heart and blood pressure regulation

   Phthalides and potassium in celery relax blood vessels and may lower blood pressure .

5. Hydration & healthy weight management

   With 95% water and only 14 kcal per 100 g , celery supports hydration and satiety—helpful for weight loss diets.

6. Vitamins and minerals

   It provides vitamins A, C, K, folate, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese—essential for blood coagulation, immunity, and bone health .

2. Culinary Uses

• Raw in salads: leaves and crunchy stalks add texture and nutrients.

• Fresh juice: may aid digestion and detoxification on an empty stomach .

• Soups and broths: adds flavor and antioxidants.

• Smoothies: blend with fruit or greens.

• Steamed or sautéed: retains flavor and more nutrients than boiling.

• Seeds and leaves as seasoning: celery seeds are aromatic; leaves substitute parsley .

3. Interesting Facts

• Root, stalk & leaf celery: three main types exist .

• Celery seeds: contain apiole and sedanolide used in spices .

• Skin benefits: antioxidants and hydration help skin health and may reduce acne .

• Cognitive support: animal studies suggest memory improvement .

• Precautions: can cause allergies or sun sensitivity via furocoumarins .

4. Expert Opinions

• Amber Sommer (Cleveland Clinic): “celery hydrates and supports heart and gut health” .

• Dr. Laura Purdy (SingleCare): “its antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and chronic disease risk” .

• Turkish metabolic syndrome research: shows celery’s hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, and hypotensive effects .

• Medical News Today: celery juice is healthy but not a miracle detox .

5. Recommendations

• Use celery daily in salads or juices to ensure steady fiber and antioxidant intake.

• Try combos: celery with cucumber, apple, lemon as a refreshing smoothie.

• For hypertension, integrate celery juice into a DASH diet.

• Watch out for allergic reactions or sun sensitivity—avoid too much seed consumption during sunny days.

• Store in cold water or damp wraps to retain crispness for 1–2 weeks .

Conclusion

Celery is a functional food with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, digestive, cognitive, and hydrating benefits. It’s versatile, affordable, and fits into any diet—but it isn’t a cure-all and should be moderated if allergic. At Știrinoi.com, we recommend adding celery to your daily meals as part of a balanced lifestyle.