If you're looking for a low-calorie food to add to your diet, consider celery! One serving of celery (68 g) contains just 11 calories, making it a great snacking option. But don't let its low calorie count fool you – celery is packed with nutrition.

Celery is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and aid in digestion. It also contains important vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and folate.

In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of celery and how you can incorporate it into your meals.

Celery is a low-calorie food

One of the benefits of celery is that it's an incredibly low-calorie food, making it a great option for weight loss or simply maintaining a healthy diet. As mentioned before, one serving (68 g) contains just 11 calories, which means you can snack on it guilt-free! Additionally, celery is mostly made up of water, which can help keep you hydrated and feeling full. So if you're looking to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction, celery is a great choice.

Celery is a good source of fiber

One of the main reasons why celery is so good for digestion is its high fiber content. One serving contains 1.6 grams of fiber, which can help keep your digestive system running smoothly and aid in the absorption of nutrients. Fiber also helps keep you feeling full for longer periods of time, which can help prevent overeating and snacking between meals. So if you're looking to improve your digestion and maintain a healthy weight, celery is a great food to include in your diet.

Celery contains important vitamins and minerals

While celery may be low in calories, it's certainly not lacking in important vitamins and minerals. One serving contains 10% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K and 5% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Celery is also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. And if you're pregnant or trying to conceive, celery's high folate content can help prevent birth defects and support healthy fetal development.

Celery is high in antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. And you might be surprised to learn that celery is actually a great source of antioxidants! One study found that celery extract was effective at reducing oxidative damage in mice, which suggests that it may have similar benefits for humans. So if you're looking to boost your antioxidant intake, be sure to include celery in your diet.

Celery can help lower blood pressure

High blood pressure is a common health problem that can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. But the good news is that certain foods, like celery, may be able to help lower your blood pressure naturally. This is because celery contains a compound called phthalides, which can help relax the muscles in your arteries and allow blood to flow more freely. And because celery is a low-sodium food, it's a great snack option for those looking to reduce their salt intake and improve their blood pressure.

Celery has anti-inflammatory properties

Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, including arthritis, Alzheimer's, and cancer. But the good news is that certain foods, like celery, can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is because celery contains several anti-inflammatory compounds, including apigenin and luteolin. One study found that apigenin was effective at reducing inflammation in rats with arthritis, which suggests that it may have similar benefits for humans.

Celery may promote digestion

Because of its high fiber content, celery is great for promoting healthy digestion. But that's not all – celery also contains compounds that may help protect against ulcers and other digestive problems. One study found that celery extract was effective at protecting against the development of stomach ulcers in rats. And because celery is easy to digest and low in fat, it's a great food to eat if you're dealing with digestive issues.

Celery can be eaten raw or cooked

One of the best things about celery is its versatility – it can be eaten raw or cooked, depending on your preference. If you're looking for a quick and easy snack, try dipping celery sticks in hummus or peanut butter. And if you're looking to add more flavor to your meals, try sautéing celery with garlic and onions for a flavorful side dish. Celery can also be added to soups, stews, and salads for added crunch and nutrition.

Celery is a popular ingredient in juices and smoothies

If you're a fan of juicing or making smoothies, you'll be happy to know that celery is a popular ingredient in many recipes. Its mild flavor and high water content make it a great addition to any drink. Try blending celery with apples, cucumbers, and ginger for a refreshing green juice, or add it to your favorite smoothie recipe for added nutrition.

Celery has a refreshing and crunchy texture

Last but not least, one of the things that makes celery so enjoyable to eat is its refreshing and crunchy texture. Unlike some other low-calorie snacks, like rice cakes or celery sticks, celery is both satisfying to eat and good for you! So next time you're looking for a healthy snack or side dish, reach for some celery – your body (and taste buds) will thank you.