~ Celery ... simple yet very complex! ~

Celery is from the same family as parsley and fennel. We all know the ribs of celery are crunchy and are often used to make soup or salad. But did you know ... Celery leaves have a high content of Vitamin A, and the stems are an excellent source of Vitamins B (B1, B2 and B6) as well as Vitamin C. It also has a rich supply of potassium, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sodium and plenty of essential amino acids. Even individuals who are salt-sensitive can safely intake the sodium in celery, unlike table salt (iodised sodium) which is harmful for those with high blood pressure.

While many foods lose nutrients during cooking, most of the compounds in celery hold up well during cooking.

Celery has always been associated with lowering of blood pressure by helping relax the muscles around the arteries, dilating the vessels and allowing blood to flow normally.

Recent studies have shown that celery might also be effective in combating cancer. Celery is known to contain at least eight families of anti-cancer compounds. Among them are the acetylenics that have been shown to stop the growth of tumor cells. Phenolic acids which block the action of prostaglandins that encourage the growth of tumor cells. And coumarins which help prevent free radicals from damaging cells.

In addition to its possible cancer fighting benefits it has also shown to effectively and significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol. It acts as a diuretic. The potassium and sodium in celery juice helps to regulate body fluid and stimulate urine production, making it an important aide to rid the body of excess fluid. It helps with inflammation. The polyacetylene in celery is an amazing relief for all inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, asthma and bronchitis. And it helps to prevent kidney stones by aiding in elimination of toxins from the body.

As if that wasn't enough here are a few more benefits eating celery does for the body ...
* The organic alkaline minerals in celery juice has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it a wonderful drink for insomniacs.

* Need help in curbing your cravings for sweets ... drink celery juice frequently throughout the day.
* The diuretic effect of celery juice also aids in the elimination of urinary and gall bladder stones.

Tips when purchasing:

1. Make sure the ribs are still firm, not limp.

2. Store in the fridge, in a sealed container or wrap in a damp cloth.
3. Do not leave at room temperature for too long as it tends to wilt quickly.

Caution!
Celery is such a succulent plant that it produces its own "pesticide" to protect itself from fungi. This protective layer is called psoralens which although protects the celery, may not be digested well with some people. If you begin having skin problems after eating celery, it might mean that you have some sensitivity to psoralens. Also, some people with low blood pressure have reported that celery makes their blood pressure even lower. Just a couple of things to keep in mind.

Celery ... a very beneficial food which can be added to salads, soups or simply as a garnish. ~ Chef Wilkinson ~