Celery is no doubt a vegetable that is much underused in our society, which is unfortunate, because it has so many benefits. Celery is from a family of vegetables called Umbelliferae, the same family from which carrots, parsley, and fennel come.
This vegetable is known to be, and science has proven it to be, a good remedy for high blood pressure. In fact, one study done at the University of Chicago Medical Center showed that those with mild to high blood pressure who consumed about four stalks of celery a day had significantly lower blood pressure within one week, and this was without lowering their salt intake! Celery has a specific compound, known as phthalide, which helps to relax the arterial muscles that control blood pressure, in turn helping blood pressure to decrease. This same compound also helps to reduce stress hormones, which cause blood pressure to increase, thereby also helping to decrease blood pressure.
Celery helps control appetite and cravings and is a great weight loss food. This is because celery is very high in water and fiber and helps one to feel full and satisfied for longer. In fact, celery is known to be one of the 'negative calorie' foods, meaning that it takes more energy to digest and assimilate celery than celery provides, which is a great aid for weight loss. With a high amount of silicon, an important mineral for bone health, celery can help to renew joints, bones, arteries, and any connective tissue. In addition, celery is a great food for helping to prevent and treat arthritis, particularly rheumatism, and gout. Many studies have shown that when subjects took an extract of celery seed that the pain from arthritis or gout was decreased and mobility increased. Also a great food to help prevent cancer, Celery has compounds called coumarins which help to block substances that cause tumor cell growth. These compounds also help to enhance the white blood cells of the immune system, lower blood pressure, and help to protect the cardiovascular system. Celery is high in potassium, sodium, calcium, folic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C. Because it is high in potassium and sodium, which are important electrolytes, celery-based juices are great beverages to consume after exercise. When purchasing celery, it's best to buy celery that is light green, crisp, and fresh looking; limp celery should be avoided. Avoid any celery that has any form of discoloration or is damaged.Ants on a Log
5 stalks celery
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup peanut butter
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