Celery is a crunchy, crisp vegetable that can provide our body with numerous benefits. It is a powerhouse of various vitamins and minerals needed by our body for optimum health. This green veggie that belongs to the Apiaceae plant family contains calcium, potassium, vitamin C, manganese, beta-carotene, and flavonoids.

Moreover, celery is also loaded with antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory nutrients that provide protection to the entire digestive tract from inflammation and diseases. It has been found to offer special benefits to our stomach.

Benefits of Celery to Our Digestive Health

May Help Treat Gut Inflammation

According to studies celery and celery seeds contain at least 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that can help fight chronic inflammation.

Celery contains luteolin which can help promote antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer activities in human bodies and interferes with the signaling of genes that promote inflammatory activity.

Luteolin is also present in carrots, peppers, olive oil, peppermint, and rosemary.

It Can Help Boost Digestion

Pectin-based polysaccharides and a compound called apiuman are present in celery. Studies suggest that these components can help lower down the risk of stomach ulcers, improve the lining of the stomach, and modulate stomach secretions.

Additionally, celery also contains high amounts of water plus generous amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber which all help support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. One cup of chopped celery, or about 100 grams, provides 1.6 grams, or 6 percent, of our daily requirements for fiber.

Fiber works by helping our digested food pass through our stomach to our small intestine, then the colon and out of our body.

It Helps Increase Beneficial Stomach Acid

This effect helps break down the food we eat and promotes smooth digestion. Therefore, consumption of this superfood can help relieve bloating and indigestion.

How To Choose And Consume Celery For Consumption

1. Look for celery leaves that are crisp, fresh (pale to bright green leaves) and with sturdy, upright stalks.

2. Eat fresh celery within five to seven days to enjoy its maximum nutritional benefits.

3. When cooking or serving, we need to chop first this veggie in order to maintain its beneficial nutrients.

4. Chop celery before cooking or serving. This helps maintain the vegetable’s essential nutrients.

5. According to experts, eating steamed celery is one of the best ways to enjoy its flavor and almost all of its nutrients. Additionally, we can also add the veggie to green smoothies, salads, or soups.