Celery: A Fruit or Vegetable?
Celery is a versatile food that can be used as both a fruit and vegetable. It is a good source of nutrients and has many health benefits. Celery can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. It can be used in soups, salads, and juices. You can also add celery to your diet by incorporating it into your meals or snacks.
Celery: A Fruit or Vegetable?
The History of Celery
Celery is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsley, and fennel. Native to the Mediterranean region, celery has been cultivated for centuries and was even used as a form of currency in some cultures. The Ancient Greeks believed that celery had medicinal properties and used it to treat everything from joint pain to insomnia.
Celery Nutrition
Celery is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it an excellent addition to any diet. One cup of chopped celery contains only 36 calories but provides significant amounts of vitamins A, C, and K as well as potassium and folate. Celery is also a good source of fiber, with 2 grams per cup.
How to Incorporate Celery into Your Diet
Celery can be eaten raw or cooked and is a versatile ingredient that can be added to both sweet and savory dishes. Raw celery sticks make a great healthy snack on their own or can be dipped in peanut butter or hummus. Cooked celery is delicious in soups and stews or can be sautéed with other vegetables. Celery juice is also gaining popularity as a health drink and can be made at home with a juicer or blender.
The Benefits of Celery
Celery for Weight Loss
Celery is often touted as a weight loss food, and for good reason. Just one stalk of celery contains about 6 calories, making it a low-calorie food choice. Additionally, celery is a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. Fiber is important for weight loss because it helps to slow down the digestive process, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. In one study, participants who ate a high-fiber diet lost more weight and body fat than those who ate a lower-fiber diet (1).
Celery for Digestion
Celery is also beneficial for digestion. This vegetable contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that helps to regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation (2). Pectin also works to bind toxins and heavy metals in the gut, helping to remove them from the body (3). Additionally, celery contains luteolin, an anti-inflammatory compound that has been shown to protect the lining of the gut (4).
Celery for Heart Health
Celery is not only good for your digestion and waistline—it’s also good for your heart. This vegetable contains compounds that can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels (5). One study found that participants who consumed celery juice daily had significantly lower blood pressure after eight weeks (6). Another study found that consuming celery seed extract was effective in reducing LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels by up to 7% (7).
Celery Recipes
Celery Soup
Ingredients:
1 pound celery, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté the onion in olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add the celery and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Celery Salad
Ingredients:
1 head of lettuce, chopped
1 bunch of celery, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup croutons
1/2 cup diced bacon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, celery, cheese, croutons, and bacon. Add your favorite salad dressing and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled.
Celery Juice
Ingredients:
1 bunch of celery, juiced
1 apple, juiced
1/2 inch ginger, juiced
Instructions:
Run all ingredients through a juicer and enjoy!
Celery is a versatile and healthy food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve your digestion, or protect your heart health, including celery in your diet is a good idea. And with so many delicious recipes to choose from, there’s no excuse not to give it a try!
