Celery - Nutrition Information, Health Benefits of Celery

Celery contains phytochemical compounds known as coumarins. Studies have shown
that coumarins are effective in cancer prevention and capable of enhancing the
activity of certain white blood cells. Coumarin compounds also lower blood pressure,
tone the vascular system, and are possibly effective when used in cases of
migraines.

Celery is considered to be a superfood for lowering blood pressure, not only because
of its coumarin compounds, but also for its high level of potassium. Potassium is an
essential mineral that's required for many functions in the body. The nutrient is
particularly important for its blood pressure lowering benefits. Potassium lowers
blood pressure to normal levels and also regulates it for cardiovascular health. Due to
how effective potassium is at lowering high blood pressure, some scientists warn that
diets low in the nutrient may actually trigger high blood pressure in some individuals.
Most plant foods provide potassium in varying amounts, but a few of them (such as
celery and bananas) contain an extraordinarily high level of the mineral-nutrient.
Unlike taking a potassium supplement, which may cause adverse side effects, the
potassium in celery is well-balanced with the other minerals and nutrients that the
vegetable provides.

Potassium is also an electrolyte and works together with other electrolyte minerals to
provide the necessary salt-ions to the body's cells. Electrolytes are essential because
they regulate the body's fluids, which is necessary for maintaining a healthy blood pH
balance and for creating the electrical impulses essential to all aspects of the cells
(including basic cell function and physical activity). Potassium and other electrolytes
are lost through the action of sweating and other losses of fluid. Due to the high
levels of potassium and sodium, when celery-based juices are consumed after a
workout they serve as great electrolyte replacement drinks. Studies have also shown
that celery may help to lower cholesterol and prevent cancer by improving
detoxification. Celery seed extract that contains 85% 3nB, has been shown to be
effective in the treatment of rheumatism (the general term used for arthritic and
muscular aches and pains). Due to its high water content and many nutrients, celery
is one of the most common ingredients in juice recipes.

Sources:

Murray , Michael N.D.. The Encyclopedia Of Healing Foods.
New York: Atria Books, 2005.

Bowden, Jonny, Ph.D., C.N.S. The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth.
Fairwinds Press, 2007

Centers For Disease Control And Prevention-5 A Day.

Active.com (Electrolytes 101)

Discovery Fit & Health (http://health.discovery.com)

National Agricultural Library-USDA. usda.gov.

Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia

Nutrient Values (# of calories, fats, vitamins, minerals, and more)

Celery provides an excellent
source of vitamin C and fiber.
It's a very good source of folic
acid, potassium, and vitamins B1
and B6. Celery also offers a
good source of vitamin B2 and
calcium. Even though celery
contains more sodium than most
other vegetables, the sodium is
offset by its high level of
potassium. Studies have shown
that the amount of sodium in
celery is not significant even for
the most salt-sensitive
individuals.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.