Celery is a popular vegetable that is consumed in various forms. 1 medium stalk (7-1/2" - 8" long) of cooked celery with added fat contains 15 calories.
While celery is a low-calorie vegetable, it offers a range of health benefits. Cooked celery is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of cooked celery and some of its potential health benefits.
Calories in Cooked Celery
Cooked celery is a low-calorie food that can be included in a healthy diet plan. 1 medium stalk of cooked celery with added fat contains approximately 15 calories. For those who are watching their calorie intake, cooked celery can be a great option. It can be consumed as a snack or added to salads and soups for a low-calorie nutrient boost. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall health.
Fat in Cooked Celery
While celery is a low-fat vegetable, cooked celery with added fat may contain a small amount of fat. When cooking celery, it is important to be mindful of the amount of added fat. Too much fat can significantly increase the calorie content of the dish. To keep cooked celery low in fat, try using healthy cooking methods such as steaming or roasting and avoid adding unnecessary fats like butter and oil.
Vitamin Content in Cooked Celery
Cooked celery is a rich source of various vitamins including vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health, while vitamin C is essential for immune system function and collagen production. Vitamin B6 is needed for brain development and function. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet can help you meet your daily recommended intake of these essential vitamins.
Mineral Content in Cooked Celery
Cooked celery is a good source of minerals like potassium and calcium. Potassium is important for muscle function and blood pressure regulation, while calcium is essential for bone health. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet can help you meet your daily recommended intake of these important minerals.
Cooked Celery as a Low-Calorie Snack
Cooked celery is a great low-calorie snack that can help you feel full and satisfied. Its high water and fiber content can help promote satiety and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. Try pairing cooked celery with a healthy dip like hummus or guacamole for a tasty and nutritious snack.
Cooked Celery as a High-Fiber Food
Cooked celery is a high-fiber food that can promote digestive health and help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Its high fiber content can help regulate bowel movements and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet can help you meet your daily recommended intake of fiber and improve your overall health.
Cooked Celery as a Low-Carb Option
Cooked celery is a low-carb option that can be incorporated into a variety of diets including keto and paleo. Its low carbohydrate content makes it a great option for those looking to limit their carb intake. Try using cooked celery as a base for soups or stews instead of high-carb ingredients like potatoes or pasta.
Cooked Celery's Effect on Blood Sugar
Cooked celery has a low glycemic index which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Its high fiber and water content can also help slow down the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet can be especially beneficial for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.
Cooked Celery and Weight Loss
Cooked celery is a low-calorie, high-fiber food that can help promote weight loss and improve overall health. Its high water and fiber content can help you feel full and satisfied, while its low calorie content can help you create a calorie deficit for weight loss. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet, along with a healthy diet and exercise plan, can help you reach your weight loss goals.
Cooked Celery as a Source of Antioxidants
Cooked celery contains various antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Incorporating cooked celery into your diet is an easy way to increase your intake of antioxidant-rich foods.
The celery plant is often passed up for other vegetables, but it is a surprisingly powerful health food that offers many benefits for overall health.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Cooked Celery
1. How many calories are in a medium stalk of cooked celery?
A medium stalk of cooked celery that includes fat added during cooking contains approximately 15 calories.
2. Can cooked celery be frozen?
Yes, cooked celery can be frozen for later use. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container and freezing.
3. Is cooked celery as nutritious as raw celery?
While cooking can slightly reduce the nutrient content of celery, it is still a healthy vegetable when cooked. Cooking can even make some nutrients more easily absorbable by the body.
4. What are some ways to use cooked celery in recipes?
Cooked celery can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, casseroles, and pasta dishes. It can also be mixed with other vegetables for a side dish or used as a topping for salads.
5. How should cooked celery be stored?
Cooked celery should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and should be consumed within 3-4 days. Discard any celery that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.