Eivind Ertesvag 
Celery – the crisp, crunchy vegetable we often pair with dip – might be the most underrated food in the grocery store. You might assume it’s nothing more than water and a bit of fiber, with no real nutritional value. Well, that’s not true.
This vegetable contains a significant amount of vitamins (A, B, C, K), as well as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. But if celery has a “superpower,” it’s phytonutrients.
Plant-based foods contain thousands of natural chemicals known as phytonutrients or phytochemicals. “Phyto” comes from the Greek word for plant.
These chemicals help plants fend off insects and harmful sun rays, but their effects on humans are even more impressive.
Phytonutrients offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, can strengthen the immune system and even repair DNA damage caused by toxins. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, diets rich in phytonutrients have shown measurable results as an effective strategy to combat cancer and heart disease.
These long-term health benefits are remarkable. But are there any short-term benefits to eating celery?
Weight loss
Celery is low in calories (100 grams contain only 10–15 calories), and its fiber content can help you feel fuller for longer.
Hydration booster
Because celery is made up of 95 percent water, it’s an excellent way to prevent dehydration if you eat it regularly throughout the day.
Anti-inflammatory properties
If you’re at risk of cardiovascular disease or cancer, adding celery to your diet may help combat chronic inflammation — a condition closely linked to these illnesses.
Helps reduce heartburn and acid reflux
Celery has long been recommended as a remedy for these issues. More studies are needed to confirm the effect of celery on heartburn and reflux, but many who have tried it report positive results.
Improves cholesterol and blood pressure
A study from the University of Chicago found that a chemical in celery called phthalide reduced cholesterol levels by 7 percent and blood pressure by 18 percent.
Supports digestion
People who suffer from digestive issues or constipation know how important fiber is. The fiber in celery can help keep your digestive system healthy.
Studies have also shown that the antioxidants in celery may reduce stomach ulcers.
Keeps mosquitoes away
You may have heard your grandmother swear by celery as a mosquito repellent. In fact, studies have shown that celery oil rubbed on the skin can effectively repel mosquitoes.
Celery can actually help keep mosquitoes at bay!
Make celery juice
To make celery juice, all you need is one stalk of celery and half a cup of water. Wash the celery thoroughly and cut it into pieces. Add celery and water to a blender and blend until smooth. For extra flavor, you can add other fruits or vegetables such as orange, cucumber, lemon or apple. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can use a natural sweetener.
When should you drink celery juice? It’s recommended to drink it on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum health benefits, or as an afternoon snack for an energy boost.
Now that you know celery is far more than just water and fiber, try incorporating it into your daily diet!
