5 Healthy Benefits of Adding Celery

Crunchy celery actually has a number of health benefits that may surprise. Here are five reasons  should consider adding celery to your diet:

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, but there are at least 12 additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients found in a single stalk. It’s also a wonderful source of phytonutrients, which have been shown to reduce instances of 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 approximately 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that can offer protection against inflammation in the body.

3. Celery supports digestion.

While its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients offer protection to the entire digestive tract, celery may offer special benefits to the stomach.
Pectin-based polysaccharides in celery, including a compound known as apiuman, to decrease instances of stomach ulcers, improve the lining of the stomach, and modulate stomach secretions.
And then there’s the high water content of celery — almost 95 percent — plus generous amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber. All of those support a healthy digestive tract. One cup of celery sticks has 5 grams of dietary fiber.

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

Vitamins A, K, and C, plus minerals like potassium and folate found in celery. It’s also low in sodium. Plus, it’s low on the glycemic index, meaning it has a slow, steady effect on your blood sugar.

5. Celery has an alkalizing effect.

With 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.

Application

Celery is usually steamed to preserve its health benefits.
It should be taken fresh in stores, the stems should be strong, the leaves should not fade.