Celery (Apium graveolens) is an aromatic vegetable that belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsnip, fennel, parsley, and cumin.

History and Origin
Celery was first grown in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, and it's been used as both food and medicine for centuries. The eastern Mediterranean region most likely region for its domestication.

Wild celery was cultivated and bred into the less bitter, more succulent vegetable we eat today, primarily in Europe starting around the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Nutrient Database - USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

Reference Values for Nutrition - FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Immune system booster - Celery can boost the immune system due to its rich content of vitamins like C and K, and antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and support the immune response. It also helps with hydration, which is crucial for immune function, and contains compounds like flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory properties.

Diabetes management - Celery can aid in diabetes management due to its low sugar and carbohydrate content, high fiber, and antioxidants that help control blood sugar levels, improve insulin resistance, and reduce inflammation. It is a healthy, low-calorie addition to a diabetic-friendly diet, but it should not replace medical treatment.

Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients - Celery is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. It contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, and phytonutrients such as flavonoids (apigenin and luteolin), caffeic acid, and p-coumaric acid. These compounds provide numerous health benefits, including supporting cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory properties - Celery is anti-inflammatory due to its compounds like flavonoids and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation in the body by protecting cells and combatting oxidative stress. It contains phytonutrients that work by decreasing inflammatory mediators like cytokines and may have pain-reducing effects similar to certain drugs. Celery also contains compounds such as apigenin and luteolin, which are thought to help reduce inflammation, and its seeds are traditionally used for ailments like gout.

A potential nerve tonic - Celery is being studied as a potential nerve tonic due to its neuroprotective properties, which may be attributed to compounds like 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) and choline. Preliminary research suggests celery may help with conditions like anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and improving cognitive function. While these findings are promising, more clinical research is needed to confirm its therapeutic effectiveness.

Rich in antioxidants - Celery is rich in antioxidants because it contains various plant compounds like flavonoids, beta carotene, and other phytonutrients that protect cells from oxidative damage. These antioxidants, including compounds like apigenin and luteolin, can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Supports heart health - Celery supports heart health by helping to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve blood circulation. It contains compounds like phthalides and apigenin that relax blood vessels, and soluble fiber that can help decrease "bad" cholesterol (LDL) levels. The vegetable is also a good source of potassium and other antioxidants, which are beneficial for cardiovascular function.

Promotes digestive health - Celery promotes digestive health by providing fiber, which aids regularity, and its high-water content helps keep you hydrated and promotes soft stools. It also contains antioxidants and natural carbs that feed beneficial gut bacteria, while its flavonoids may inhibit certain harmful bacteria.

Source of essential nutrients - Celery is a source of essential nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and folate, while being very low in calories. It is also rich in water, fiber, and various antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

Aids in weight management - Celery supports weight management by being low in calories and high in water and fiber, which promotes fullness and helps you maintain a calorie deficit. It can help manage hunger, and its high water content may support hydration, while its fiber can aid in blood sugar management. For optimal results, incorporate whole celery into a balanced diet and replace higher-calorie snacks or drinks with it, rather than relying solely on celery juice.

Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients (Celery is rich in antioxidants like Vitamin C and beta-carotene, and especially in unique phytonutrients called phenolic compounds (such as apigenin and luteolin) and flavonoids). These compounds provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting cells from damage and potentially reducing inflammation throughout the body, including in blood vessels and the digestive tract.

Supports Heart Health (Celery supports heart health by lowering blood pressure through compounds called phthalides that relax arteries, reducing cholesterol with its fiber, and providing essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium that regulate blood pressure and improve heart function). Its antioxidant properties also protect the cardiovascular system from damage.

Aids Digestion (Celery aids digestion by providing both soluble and insoluble fiber, which regulates bowel movements and supports beneficial gut bacteria). It also contains pectin-based polysaccharides that may protect the stomach lining and reduce ulcers. Its high-water content further supports hydration, a crucial factor for overall digestive health.

Anti-inflammatory Properties (High levels of bioactive compounds such as apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol).

Immune System Booster (Rich in vitamin A and C as well as antioxidants).

A Potent Nerve Tonic  (Celery contains coumarins (potential of treating neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, and more).

Diabetes Management (Celery have shown hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, and hypotensive properties).

Celery - From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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