Celery – more crunch than its fellow coloured friends? Let’s look at the evidence.
The celery juice movement has created quite the buzz in health and wellness circles recently. While I believe any media hype on veggies is a good thing, I am wary when I see a single food dubbed the ‘cure-all’ solution to a whole gamut of health issues.
So, what does the research say?
Firstly, studies primarily focus on celery seed/oil or the herbal extract rather than the juice itself. This poses the question, what are we missing that only the fresh wholefood can provide?
Secondly, while we can confirm that celery has potent urinary anti-septic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, we should be aware that there is power in moderation and variety. These properties may explain the reason why this leafy green has a therapeutic effect on digestive, cognitive (brain function) and reproductive health, as well as lowering LDL cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose levels – promising news for all the celery lovers out there! Even better, combining celery with other anti-inflammatory foods like ginger or turmeric can assist the body in reducing inflammation without overwhelming the digestive system with ‘too much of a good thing’.
The ‘magic’ it seems lies in the plant’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as delivering a large dose of nutrients (Vitamin K, Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron) and hydration. So yes, celery has many health benefits, but nothing beats a rainbow!
Click here to read a scientific review of the Antioxidant Activity of Celery!