I was sitting at my desk in the gym today eating celery and humus as a snack. I may have mentioned recently that I am on a quest to lose not only body fat but also to lose the 235 lb bulky bodybuilder look. As much as I hate to admit it, the lean, crossfit type body seems to be the look that it's in and gets all the "likes" on IG. So, I'm sitting there eating my celery and humus and one of the old timers that is at the gym every day asks me, "Hey Josh, what, you on a diet or something? I thought only chicks eat celery!" Swear to god, that's exactly what he said! I gave him the standard "It's good for you." I listed a few of the health benefits and told him I enjoy the taste as well.
In order to defend my love of celery and to show it's not just a veggie for females, I've decided to do a little research and share it. As far back as the ancient times, celery was used as a natural detox, was believed to prevent disease and celery seeds were used for pain management! There are several cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits as well. Besides providing fiber which aids in digestion, it is loaded with antioxidants. Celery has shown to improve blood pressure and cholesterol as well. So Joe, celery isn't just for "chicks" on a diet!
NUTRITION FACTS
One cup of chopped celery has: (1)
(percentages based on the RDA for adult women) - - - OK this doesn't help my argument I know! LOL
16 calories
0 fat
1 gram of protein
5 grams of fiber
5 milligrams vitamin K (37%)
36 milligrams folate (9%)
22 milligrams vitamin A (9%)
263 milligrams potassium (8%)
1 milligrams vitamin C (5%)
40 milligrams calcium (4%)
0.08 milligrams vitamin B6 (4%)
BENEFITS OF ADDING CELERY TO YOUR NUTRIENT INTAKE
HELPS LOWER CHOLESTEROL
Celery contains a lipid lowering compounds that help lower cholesterol and maintain heart health. Research has shown celery helps reduce total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride concentrations.
HELPS LOWER INFLAMMATION
Celery contains anti-oxidants such as flavonoid and polyphenol which have been shown to reduce inflammation at a cellular level. inflammation of cells have been shown to be the root cause of most sickness and cancers. Antioxidants fight free radicals that cause inflammation leading to diseases and conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, gout, kidney disease, liver infection, skin disorders, irritable bowel syndrome and urinary tract infections..
HELPS PREVENT AND LOWER HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Celery seeds in particular have compounds such as hexanic, methanolic and aqueous-ethanolic. You're probably asking yourself, what the heck is that? They are compounds found to relax smooth or cardiac muscle allowing for better blood flow and lower inflammation within the arterial walls. They allow for better blood flow which carries nutrients and allows better flow of calcium and potassium in and out of the cells.
HELPS PREVENT ULCERS
Celery contains a type of ethanol extract which helps protect the lining of the digestive tract from ulcers. Celery extract in particular has the ability to raise levels of gastric mucous which help prevent holes in the lining of the digestive tract. Celery also contains flavonoids, tannins and specific alkaloids and oils which help control gastric acid release.
HELPS FIGHT INFECTIONS
Celery contains anti-microbial properties which have been used for centuries as herbal medicine. Celery seeds and extract from the seeds have been shown to help purify and reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the body. This would suggest celery helps boost our immune systems and helps fight infections!
HELPS PREVENT URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
I am thankful I've never experienced a urinary tract infection. I understand they are painful and may be hereditary. Celery helps reduce uric acid and improves urine production. This can also help protect against bladder disorders and help maintain kidney health.
HELPS MINIMIZE CANCER
There are several veggies that help in the fight against various cancers. The common ingredient in the veggies are compounds called polyacetylenes. These compounds have been shown reduce toxicity and fight against cancer formation. Polyacetylenes boost immunity against various inflammatory agents.
HELPS WITH WEIGHT LOSS
Celery is low in calories and is predominantly made of fiber and water. This helps to feel full longer. This is important when cutting calories. It also contains nutrients that regulate fatty lipid metabolism. When "dieting", the calories consumed need to be nutrient dense. Celery is loaded with micronutrients needed to maintain body health. Celery contains vitamins such as C and B, minerals, antioxidants, electrolytes, and potassium. This allows not only for fat loss but maintain muscle and healthy organs.
HELPS DIGESTION
Constipated or bloated? Try juicing some celery and half an apple! This remedy is more natural and healthy than any laxative. Celery and celery seeds contain a compound which is an oily diuretic known as NBP. This provides a natural detox for the body. It helps improve circulation in the intestines which improve digestion, relieving bloat and water retention.
Celery is not only great eaten as a snack with humus or peanut butter, it is also great when added to salad, omelettes and other recipes. One of the benefits of celery is that it's easy to transport for lunches or snacks, is great as a midday snack or when you have the munchies. Instead of grabbing chips or some other high calorie processed snack, grab some celery... Your body and waist will thank you!
*Information compiled from https://draxe.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/CeleryBenefits.jpg as well as personal research over the years.