A Quick Look At Celery

Photo Credit: Fir0002



Celery seems to be the underdog of vegetables and many do not include it in their daily diets. The common sight of celery today is either next to a platter of hot wings or drowned in ranch dip. Sticking celery in the "appetizer" category really undermines the value of this wonderful vegetable.

Background 


Celery is native to the Mediterranean and the Middle East and is from amongst the Apiaceae family (along with parsley and carrots).  Ancient texts have shown that it was originally grown for medicinal purposes and was used prior to 850 B.C. It wasn't recorded to be domesticated until the 17th century by the Europeans. (1)

There are two main varieties of celery: Pascal (green) and Celeriac (yellow; also known as celery root). Pascal celery is the most popular in the United States. California is the highest producer of this kind of celery, producing about 23,000 acres per year (2) Celeriac celery, on the other hand, is more common in Europe but is growing popularity in the US in gourmet cooking.


Celery prefers cooler temperatures and lots of moisture thus it is in-season on the East Coast from late summer to early fall. Find out when celery is in-season in your area by using The Seasonal Food Guide.


Health Benefits 

Celery is 95% water and extremely nutrient dense containing many different types of minerals and vitamins. One of the most abundant minerals in celery is vitamin K; about  40% of the daily value. Vitamin K plays a critical role in supporting healthy bones. Those who are deficient in this mineral have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. (3)

It has anti-inflammatory properties that fight against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is well-known as a platform for which many other conditions can arise such as heart disease, cancer, and inflammation.

Eating this crunchy veggie is great for digestion due to its fiber and high water content. A better digestive tract leads to better absorption of minerals, a reduction of bloat and encourages the body to detox naturally.

Celery has 10% daily value of vitamin A which is extremely helpful in supporting eye health. Moreover, vitamin A is important in a developing embryo and infants. Normally, infants get enough vitamin A from breastmilk considering that the mother isn't deficient in it. (4,5) Celery stalks are safe for pregnant women to consume but they should refrain from its oil and seeds as it can cause great harm to the developing child. (6,)

Tips When Choosing Your Celery


 Before you can use this vegetable as a quick snack, in a soup or for your juicing needs, you have to pick and store your celery. Celery is one of those produce items that you should strive to buy organic since it is conventionally (7) sprayed with high amounts of pesticides and it lacks a thick protective skin.

 Find celery that is firm and has vibrant leaves (if attached). When you bring them home, wrap them in a kitchen or paper towel to keep them dry and store them in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week in this state. After this point, it will start to wilt and lose its nutrients. Celery doesn't recover well from freezing as a result of its high water content (it will just turn into a mushy mess!)

All of the celery can be eaten: its leaves, stalks, seeds, and roots (in the case of celeriac celery), although many would prefer to cut off the white ends of Pascal celery due to its bitterness.




Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA 





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