When my babies were smaller, I used to love making “ants on a log” …that was their favorite snack. “Ants on a log” is easy to make and is a tasty and healthy snack. All you need is celery, peanut butter, and raisins. BOOM! They didn’t even know how healthy that was..hehehehehe
Now that they are older, unless celery is in a recipe, I do not even purchase it very often…not until recently when I was refreshed on its benefits and how it can change your body.
They say that celery is made up of mostly water and holds no nutritional value. This is not true! Celery provides us with a few health benefits.
Now, celery is made up of 95% water, that’s true but it is a vegetable that is very high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes regular movement (we all need that!). When you eat it in combination with whole foods that are high in fat and protein (hello peanut butter, hummus), it is said to help you lose and maintain weight because it helps to keep you feeling fuller longer…..hello!
Celery has phytonutrients, which have anti-inflammatory properties. I usually looked to turmeric for this but that is a bonus. Phytonutrients are good for your liver function as well. It’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals including folate, vitamin B6, potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin C.
If it is gonna benefit you like this, why not reintroduce it into your diet, I am! I actually wanna try it with hummus…I have never tried that because I can’t get past the look and the fact that I am a mom who nursed all of her children (baby poop)…but I am going to give it a go and see what happens.
Don’t forget that because it is made up of mostly water, it is a good source for hydration. We have to drink lots of water, especially during the summer. Staying hydrated is going to give us energy, keep our skin looking good, rids the body of toxins, and keep us from passing out in this heat because of dehydration.
So give celery another try….Here are some other benefits….
- Lowers inflammation
- reduces high cholesterol
- treats high blood pressure
- fights infection
- cures bloating and improve digestion
- reduces the risk of UTIs
- boosts your immune system
- improves your mood
- fights cramps
- reduces blood sugar
- improves eye health
- boosts energy and brain health
let’s go!!