Whether you eat it raw, throw it in some homemade soup or snack on a few stalks with a delicious dip as a side, celery provides some
amazing health benefits for your body. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals that help reduce inflammation, promote joint health and even help protect against cancer.
If celery isn’t part of your daily diet, here are ten reasons why it should be:
1. Celery Reduces Inflammation
Celery is a natural anti-inflammatory. It contains luteolin, a phytochemical that has many health benefits. It has been shown to reduce inflammation in many parts of the body, including the brain.
2. Celery Reduces Cholesterol
Celery contains phthalides which trigger the production of bile acids. Bile acids work to reduce LDL cholesterol in the blood. Eating about two sticks of celery per day can help reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in your body.
3. Celery Treats Bladder Infections
Celery is also a natural diuretic. It helps flush gallstones and bacteria out of the body to reduce inflammation, treat bladder infections and promote a healthy digestive system.
4. Celery Promotes Joint Health
Celery’s anti-inflammatory properties work wonders on inflammatory conditions, including gout and arthritis. One glass of celery juice per day helps reduce the swelling and pain associated with these conditions.
5. Celery Provides Cancer Protection
There are many compounds in celery that have been shown to fight cancer. Phthalides and polyacetylenes detoxify cancer cells in the body to help prevent several types of cancer, including ovarian cancer.
6. Celery Helps Manage Blood Pressure
Celery contains potassium, which helps manage blood pressure. The phthalides in celery also help to relax the muscles surrounding the arteries, which lowers blood pressure by helping the blood vessels dilate.
7. Celery Aids In Weight Loss
Celery is the perfect snack for weight loss. One stalk only contains about 15 calories and it’s packed full of fiber. The fiber in celery will help keep you fuller longer, to prevent overeating.
8. Celery Helps Treat Bad Breath
Bad breath results from bacteria getting stuck in your gums and teeth. Chewing on a piece of celery can help dislodge food that’s stuck. It will also help freshen your breath!
9. Celery Aids In Digestion
The high water and fiber content in celery makes it an ideal food to help with constipation. The water and insoluble fiber will help keep your digestive system running smoothly.
10. Celery Helps Relieve Stress
Believe it or not, celery can help your body better deal with stress and anxiety. Celery contains magnesium, which naturally calms the nervous system. Snacking on celery before bed can also help promote a better night’s sleep.