In our daily efforts to improve health and well-being, the foods and beverages we consume take center stage. Amongst the range of options, a noteworthy performer emerging for its nutritional symphony is celery. This crisp and fibrous green vegetable has been a part of the staple diet for ages; however, for a few years, it has stepped into the spotlight as ‘Celery Juice’. Also known as the ‘Detox Queen’, this green juice is a sensation amongst wellness enthusiasts with proven benefits. They and even medical experts have joined the race, exhibiting it as a superfood miracle. Beyond its role in weight loss, Celery juice is also known for its potential benefits for the stomach and digestive system. Wondering about the benefits? Join us:
Nutritional Value Of Celery Juice
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 grams |
| Calories | 16 |
| Water | 95.4 grams |
| Protein | 0.7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 3.4 grams |
| Sugar | 1.7 grams |
| Dietary Fibre | 1.6 grams |
| Fat | 0.2 gram |
| Vitamin K | 29.3 micrograms/ 37% of the daily recommended value |
| Vitamin A | 22 IU |
| Folate B9 | 35 micrograms/ 9% of the daily recommended value |
| Vitamin C | 3.1 microgram/ 5% of the daily recommended value |
| Potassium | 260 mg/ 7% of the daily recommended value |
| Sodium | 80 mg/ 3% of the daily recommended value |
| Calcium | 40 mg/ 4% of the daily recommended value |
| Magnesium | 11 mg/ 3% of the daily recommended value |
Benefits for Stomach
Celery Juice may offer numerous health benefits for the stomach and overall digestive health. Here’s an overview of the same:
- It aids digestion: The presence of natural enzymes helps break down the food efficiently, thus aiding digestion. Not only that, but the fiber content in unstrained juice may help regulate bowel movements, thus reducing the chances of constipation.
- It offers alkalizing properties: Being alkaline in nature, this green juice helps maintain balanced pH levels, which are crucial for the stomach’s optimal health. According to science, an alkaline environment (balanced pH) helps neutralize excess stomach acid, reducing the chances of acidity.
- It offers anti-inflammatory effects: Antioxidants, particularly polyphenols and flavonoids, help fight inflammation in the stomach lining. The anti-inflammatory effects are beneficial for those suffering from gastric and bloating issues.
- It reduces bloating: Due to diuretic properties, this green juice may reduce water retention, thus helping with bloating. Not only that but improved digestion also aids in reducing bloating.
- It supports a healthy gut microbiome: Celery juice is fibrous and thus acts as a probiotic, promoting beneficial bacteria growth in the gut. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome improves overall digestive health.
- It may heal ulcers: Although there is less evidence, this magical green juice may heal ulcers due to its potential soothing effect on the stomach lining. However, the individual response may vary.
- It is rich in antioxidants: Being a rich source of flavonoids and Vitamin C, it may protect the stomach from oxidative stress and damage. The security may contribute to long-term digestive health.
- It gives a hydration boost: Since this green juice is primarily composed of water, consuming it regularly may contribute to overall hydration. It may also be beneficial for supporting the digestive process and maintaining mucosal integrity.
- It may assist in weight management: Although it does not directly support different aspects of digestive health, it may help in weight loss and weight management.
Other Benefits
Besides improving digestive health, celery juice offers a range of other benefits as well including the following:
- It helps remove acne scars, get rid of blemishes, and provide hydration, thus improving the overall feel and appearance of the skin.
- The presence of antioxidants protects the blood vessels, thus increasing hair growth and preventing hair loss. Not only that, but Vitamin K in celery is helpful for hair follicles.
- It may help in stabilizing mood swings and improving mental health.
- Some studies suggest that this green juice may slow the progression of age-related memory loss; however, more research is needed.
- However, It may help reduce blood sugar levels with no particular effects on insulin.
- It may be suitable for eyesight and collagen production and might help wound recovery.
Preventive Measures
When consuming celery juice, here are some preventive measures you can consider:
- Before juicing celery, wash them thoroughly to remove dirt, pesticides, and contamination.
- Choose organically grown greens.
- While greens may have numerous benefits, excessive consumption can have potential side effects; thus, start small and increase the quantity/ frequency gradually.
- Since it contains a good amount of sodium, watch your sodium intake alongside.
- Individuals prone to kidney stones must consult with their healthcare professional.
- Consider drinking unstrained juice to enjoy the benefits of fiber content.
Myths and Side Effects
Myth: Celery juice boasts miraculous healing properties; however, it is important to approach such claims skeptically. Although the juice is highly nutritious, at the end of the day, it is just a dietary addition and not a substitute for any treatment.
Myth: There’s a misconception that it is a negative calorie food; however, the claim is not scientifically supported.
Side effects
- Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort, such as gas or bloating in some individuals.
- It contains oxalates and thus may develop kidney stones.
- Although rare, some individuals may experience allergies in the form of rashes and irritation.
- It might interfere with certain medications, especially blood thinners.
- It might contribute to high sodium intake.
How to prepare?
For preparing celery juice at home:
Wash and chop 3 to 4 stalks or more, depending on how much juice you want. Now, put the stalks into the blender alone or along with ginger and lemon for added benefits and flavor. Blend everything until smooth, pour into a glass (avoid straining) and enjoy.
Conclusion
Celery juice is loaded with numerous health benefits ranging from that for the stomach, digestive health, skin, or mood. Consuming this green drink every morning on an empty stomach can be valuable to your daily clean eating and fitness routine. However, remember that celery juice is just juice, and relying on it ‘solely’ for any health improvement can be a bad idea. Balance your diet and lifestyle, and consult your doctor for any healthcare-related query.
References
- Mansouri E, Kooti W, Bazvand M. The effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Foeniculum vulgare Mill on leukocytes and hematological tests in male rats. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod. 2015;10:e18396. [PMC free article]
- Tang SY, Halliwell B. Medicinal plants and antioxidants: what do we learn from cell culture and Caenorhabditis elegans studies? Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2010;394:1–5. [PubMed]
