SOULSPEAK: HEALTH BENEFITS OF CELERY

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CELERY

The health benefits of celery have been known for centuries. In ancient times, it was also considered a medicinal herb used to treat a variety of sicknesses. In the early middle ages celery juice was used for curing ailments such as gallstones, constipation, menstrual problems and for health disorders of the liver and gall bladder.

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 it's high levels of potassium. Studies have shown that the amount of sodium in celery is not significant even for the most salt-sensitive individuals.

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. 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 extract that contains 85% 3nB, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of "rheumatism". That is the general term used for arthritic and muscular aches and pains.

CELERY JUICE

Celery juice is highly nutritious and very hydrating. Because it is incredibly alkalizing, it equalizes the body's PH, which is essential for good health. All parts of celery are packed with minerals, vitamins and nutrients. Celery leaves are high in vitamin A, whilst the stems are an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C and dense in potassium, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium and essential amino acids.

This super food also contains important concentrations of plant hormones and healing essential oils that give celery its characteristic smell. These oils help to regulate the nervous system, and are very calming.

Sodium that is available in celery is soluble and organic (living), and is essential for the body. Organic salt allows the body to use the other nutrients that are taken into the body. Every cell in our body is constantly bathed in a salt solution, and if the salt level is not in balance, dehydration occurs. This is why celery juice is a perfect rehydration drink for athletes.

Other Health Benefits of Celery Juice

Vitamin C Source - Celery is rich in vitamin C, a very important antioxidant and immune system booster.

Detox Diet Super Food - Celery is highly recommended in most detox diet plans as a cleanser to add to your juicing recipes. It has excellent cleansing properties that help to aid digestion, regulate body fluid by acting as a diuretic and curbing sweet cravings.

Cancer Prevention - Studies found that celery contains a at least eight compounds that help prevent cancer cells from spreading. Certain compounds called acetylenics have been shown to stop the growth of tumor cells. Celery contains other compounds called phonolic acids that block the action of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which encourage the growth of tumor cells. Coumarins, another phytonutrient in celery helps prevent free-radicals from damaging cells and prevent the formation and development of colon and stomach cancers.

Lowers Cholesterol- Laboratory studies also indicate that butyl phthalide, a chemical in celery, may help reduce

LDL (bad) cholesterol. Celery also helps to increase bile acid secretion which helps to remove cholesterol from the body.

Improves Digestion - Celery is a natural laxative that helps to relieve constipation. Special nutrients in the fiber are released during juicing that aid bowel movements.

Diuretic - The potassium and sodium in celery juice are powerful body fluid regulators that stimulate urine production to help rid the body of excess fluid.

Anti Inflammatory - The polyacetylene in celery is an amazing relief for all inflammation including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, asthma and bronchitis. A study found that another powerful phytonutrient called luteolin blocks the inflammation pathway in the brain. Luteolin also inhibits the excess production of TNF-alpha, a direct cause of inflammation.

Lower blood pressure - Chinese medicine has long recognised Celery's potential for reducing high blood pressure . Studies show that drinking celery juice every day for 1 week can significantly help lower blood pressure. A compound called phtalides helps relax the muscles around the arteries, dilating the vessels and allowing blood to flow smoothly. Pthalides also reduce stress hormones, one of whose effects is to cause blood vessels to constrict.

Insomnia - Celery juice is said to have a calming effect on the nervous system, making it beneficial for insomniacs. Its high magnesium levels help people to relax into a soothing and restful sleep.

Weight loss- Drinking celery juice frequently throughout the day is a popular natural appetite suppresant. Snacking on celery during the day will help fill you up without adding extra calories.

Elimination and Prevention of Stones - Celery juice is great for cleansing toxins from the body and a good natural remedy for dissolving and passing of urinary and gall stones. Drinking it regularly will help to keep them from forming again

Increased Sexual Drive - Celery juice is beneficial for weak sex drive without the effects of an uncontrollable urge that some pharmaceutical drugs have.