Let’s Celery-brate a good lifestyle!

At first glance, celery might seem boring. After all, the veggie is mostly made of water, so it tastes pretty bland. However, when it comes to nutrition, celery is anything but bland. It's worth every bite.

Dietitian & nutritionist from New Delhi, Maya Vashisht says, "Celery mainly consists of water, meaning it's not exactly teeming with vitamins and minerals. The stalks and leaves both offer some nutrients (Vitamin C and Magnesium) in small amounts."

She added, "The only exception is Vitamin K, which is abundant in celery. In the body, Vitamin K is crucial for proper blood clotting (to prevent excess bleeding) and bone building. Celery also contains gut-friendly fiber both insoluble and soluble which are vital for healthy digestion."

Have a look at benefits of celery:
Celery is a great source of important antioxidants.

Antioxidants protect cells, blood vessels, and organs from oxidative damage. Celery contains vitamin C, beta carotene, and flavonoids, but there are at least twelve additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients found in a single stalk. It’s also a wonderful source of phytonutrients, which have been shown to reduce instances of inflammation in the digestive tract, cells, blood vessels, and organs.

Celery reduces inflammation.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to many illnesses, including arthritis and osteoporosis. Celery and celery seeds have approximately 25 anti-inflammatory compounds that can offer protection against inflammation in the body.

May support heart health

Although celery has high water content, it contains numerous vitamins and minerals, including potassium and calcium, which are important for heart health. It also contains folate and vitamin K, both of which are required for the formation of red blood cells and effective blood clotting. Celery is also a good source of protective plant compounds called flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Diets high in fibrous foods like celery are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

May support digestive function

Celery is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibre, which is important for digestive function. A 2010 animal study using celery extract also suggested that its phytonutrient content may be beneficial for protecting digestive mucosa, and as a result, may guard against gastric ulcers.

May improve blood sugar management

With a low Glycaemic Index (GI) and a high fibre content, celery is useful for those who need to monitor their blood sugar levels. According to the Healthine website, it may be effective at reducing blood glucose levels.

Do try cream of Celery Soup

Smooth and flavorful, this soup comes together quickly.

Ingredients:

• Butter
• Onion, finely chopped celery
• Garlic, clove, minced
• Flour
• Chicken stock
• Milk
• Salt and sugar
• Freshly ground black pepper

Steps

• Melt butter over medium-high heat in a heavy-bottomed pot. Cook onions, celery, and garlic until translucent, about five to seven minutes. Add flour and cook for one minute.
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• Add chicken stock and milk, stirring until smooth. Increase heat, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining ingredients, and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
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• Add salt to taste and ready to serve!

Stay fit and healthy