Celery Hearts are a great addition to any diet plan, especially for those who are watching their calorie intake. Two medium stalks of celery hearts, weighing around 110 grams, only contain 15 calories! This makes them a perfect snack option for those who are trying to shed a few pounds.
Celery hearts are high in water content, which means they help keep you hydrated and make you feel fuller for longer. They are also rich in fiber, low in fat and cholesterol, making them a great addition to any diet plan.
In this article, we'll explore some of the health benefits of celery hearts and how you can incorporate them into your daily diet.
Low Calorie Count
As mentioned previously, celery hearts are incredibly low in calories. Two medium stalks of celery hearts contain only 15 calories, making them the perfect snack option for those who are trying to maintain a healthy weight. Celery hearts are also a great addition to any meal plan due to their low-calorie content. You can add them to soups, salads or use them as a snack with some peanut butter.
High in Water Content
Celery hearts are made up of 95% water content, making them an excellent food option to keep you hydrated. Drinking water is essential to maintaining overall health and well-being, and celery hearts provide an additional source of hydration. When consumed, celery hearts help regulate the body's water balance and also aid in the elimination of toxins.
Low in Fat and Cholesterol
Celery hearts are low in fat and cholesterol, making them a great addition to any healthy diet. High cholesterol levels can contribute to the development of heart disease, making it important to limit foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat. By increasing your intake of foods low in fat and cholesterol, such as celery hearts, you can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and other related conditions.
Rich in Fiber
Celery hearts are an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. By consuming foods rich in fiber, such as celery hearts, you can help regulate bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation and other related conditions. Fiber also helps you feel fuller for longer periods, making it an excellent food choice for those trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Good Source of Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Celery hearts are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, folate, potassium, and vitamin C. These vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being, and including celery hearts in your diet can help you meet your daily vitamin and mineral requirements.
May Aid in Digestion
Fiber-rich foods, such as celery hearts, can aid in digestion by regulating bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation and other digestive problems. Celery hearts also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help support digestive health and reduce inflammation in the gut.
May Lower Blood Pressure
Celery hearts contain compounds known as phthalides, which have been shown to lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. By incorporating celery hearts into your diet, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure and related conditions.
Versatile Ingredient in Many Recipes
Celery hearts are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. They add texture, crunch, and flavor to dishes and can be used in salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. Celery hearts can also be used as a garnish or eaten raw as a healthy snack option.
Can Serve as a Healthy Snack
Celery hearts are a great snack option for those who are trying to maintain a healthy weight. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and contain essential vitamins and minerals. You can enjoy them with some peanut butter, hummus or incorporate them into a salad for an added crunch.
May Help Reduce Inflammation
Celery hearts contain anti-inflammatory compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of a variety of health problems, making it important to incorporate anti-inflammatory foods, such as celery hearts, into your diet.
Celery is one of nature's most low-calorie and nutrient-dense foods, which makes it an excellent choice for those who are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celery Hearts
1. What are celery hearts?
Celery hearts are the innermost part of the celery stalk, characterized by pale green to white stalks with tender leaves. These parts are crisp in texture and mild in flavor, making them ideal as additions to salads, soups, and sandwiches.
2. What are the health benefits of celery hearts?
Celery hearts are a low-calorie vegetable that is packed with nutrients. They are excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and K, and they are also a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. Moreover, studies suggest that celery hearts may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
3. How can I store celery hearts?
You can store celery hearts in the refrigerator in a plastic bag, or you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and then cover with plastic wrap. Celery hearts can last for up to two weeks when stored properly.
4. What are some ways to use celery hearts in cooking?
Celery hearts are versatile in cooking. You can use them as a base for soups and stews, add them to salads for a refreshing crunch, or chop them up and mix with tuna or chicken salad. You can also grill or roast them for a smoky flavor.
5. Can I substitute celery hearts with other vegetables?
If you cannot find or do not have celery hearts, you can substitute them with other vegetables with similar texture and flavor. Some good substitutes are fennel, bok choy, and napa cabbage.