Celery Nutrition: Understanding the Facts About Calories, Protein, Fat, Carbs, and Vitamins
Celery is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked, and it's a popular choice for healthy snacks, soups, stews, and salads. This low-calorie vegetable is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits of celery and how it can contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.
Calories in Celery
Celery is a low-calorie vegetable, which means that it can be an excellent addition to a weight loss or weight management diet. One medium stalk of celery (about 7-8 inches long) contains only six calories. This makes celery an excellent snack option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake without sacrificing nutrition.
Protein in Celery
Celery is not a significant source of protein. One medium stalk of celery contains only 0.2 grams of protein. However, combining celery with other protein-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, or hummus can increase the protein content of a snack or meal.
Fat in Celery
Celery is a low-fat vegetable, with one medium stalk containing only 0.1 grams of fat. The small amount of fat in celery is mostly unsaturated, which can have several health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving cholesterol levels.
Carbs in Celery
Celery is a low-carb vegetable, with one medium stalk containing only 1.2 grams of carbohydrates. The low carb content of celery makes it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Fiber in Celery
Celery is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. One medium stalk of celery contains 1.6 grams of fiber. Fiber can also help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight loss.
Vitamins and Minerals in Celery
Celery is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including:
Vitamin K: One medium stalk of celery contains 25% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Vitamin C: One medium stalk of celery contains 5% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, which is essential for immune system function and skin health.
Potassium: One medium stalk of celery contains 4% of the daily recommended intake of potassium, which is essential for regulating blood pressure and supporting muscle and nerve function.
Folate: One medium stalk of celery contains 3% of the daily recommended intake of folate, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division.
Antioxidants in Celery
Celery contains several antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Some studies have suggested that the antioxidants in celery may help reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Is Celery Good For You
Yes, celery is good for you! This versatile vegetable is a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it has several health benefits. Celery is low in calories and carbs and high in fiber, making it an excellent addition to a healthy and balanced diet. It can support weight loss and weight management goals, improve digestive health, regulate blood pressure, and reduce inflammation. Celery is also a great choice for a healthy snack or addition to your meals, and it can be enjoyed in many different ways, from raw to cooked.
Celery is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be an excellent addition to a healthy and balanced diet. With its low-calorie, low-carb, and high-fiber content, celery can help support weight loss and weight management goals. Additionally, the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in celery can provide several health benefits, including improved heart health, immune function, and digestive health. So next time you're looking for a healthy snack or addition to your meal, consider adding some celery to your plate!
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