Did you know that 2 stalks of celery (without salt, drained, cooked, boiled) have only 14 calories? It's true, and that's not all this vegetable has to offer. Keep reading to discover its many health benefits.
Celery is a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Whether you're looking to maintain a healthy weight, improve your bone health, or boost your immune system, celery is a great addition to your diet.
Good for digestion
As mentioned, celery is a fantastic source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. It can help to prevent constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues. Furthermore, the fiber in celery feeds your gut bacteria, helping to maintain a healthy balance of microflora in your gut. Celery also contains water, which can help to keep you hydrated and aid in digestion. If you're looking for a natural way to improve your digestive health, munching on some celery sticks is a great place to start.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Celery is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. Vitamin K is important for bone health and can help to prevent osteoporosis, while vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to boost your immune system. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps to regulate fluid balance in the body and contributes to healthy blood pressure levels. In fact, celery is a great food for people with high blood pressure, as it can help to lower blood pressure naturally.
Boosts the immune system
In addition to vitamin C, celery contains other antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help to protect your cells from damage and improve your immune system. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties and can also help to prevent chronic diseases. By adding celery to your diet, you'll be providing your body with a range of nutrients that can help to keep your immune system strong and healthy.
Lowers high blood pressure
Celery contains compounds called phthalides, which can help to relax the muscles in your arteries and improve blood flow. This can help to lower high blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease. In fact, studies have shown that eating celery can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure levels. If you're looking for a natural way to manage your blood pressure, adding celery to your diet is a great place to start.
Helps regulate weight
Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that's high in fiber. This means that it can help to keep you feeling full for longer periods of time, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss over time. In addition, celery is a great snack option for people who are trying to lose weight, as it's low in calories and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of ways.
Can be eaten raw or cooked
One of the great things about celery is that it can be enjoyed raw or cooked, making it a versatile ingredient in many recipes. Raw celery can be used as a snack or added to salads, while cooked celery is a great addition to soups, stews, and casseroles. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, celery is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals.
Perfect for salads and soups
Celery is a popular ingredient in many salads and soups, as it adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle flavor. Try adding chopped celery to your favorite salad or soup recipe to boost the nutrition content and add some extra flavor. You can also try making celery soup by simmering chopped celery in vegetable broth with herbs and spices. It's a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
Improves bone health
As mentioned, celery is a great source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health. Vitamin K helps to improve bone density and can reduce your risk of osteoporosis and other bone disorders. In addition, celery contains other nutrients like calcium and magnesium, which are also essential for bone health. By eating celery regularly, you can help to maintain strong and healthy bones.
Provides hydration
As mentioned, celery contains a high percentage of water, which can help to keep you hydrated and promote healthy digestion. In fact, celery is often recommended as a hydrating snack for athletes and active individuals, as it contains essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium. By adding celery to your diet, you can help to maintain optimal fluid balance in your body and support your overall health and well-being.
Easy and versatile ingredient
Last but not least, celery is an incredibly easy and versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. From salads and soups to snacks and smoothies, there are countless ways to incorporate celery into your diet. Whether you're looking to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your meals or simply want to try something new, celery is a great choice.
FAQs about Cooked Celery
1. How many calories are in cooked celery?
There are 14 calories in 2 stalks of cooked celery without salt.
2. Is cooked celery healthy?
Yes, cooked celery is healthy as it is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
3. How do you cook celery?
To cook celery, wash and trim the stalks, and cut them into small pieces. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the celery and sauté until it is tender but still crisp.
4. What are the health benefits of eating cooked celery?
Cooked celery is an excellent source of fiber, which helps to promote digestive health. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like potassium and manganese. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, skin, and immune system.
5. Can you freeze cooked celery?
Yes, you can freeze cooked celery. First, let it cool completely, then pack it into an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the container or bag, and freeze for up to 6 months. However, the texture of the celery may change after freezing, so it is best used in cooked dishes rather than eaten raw.