The antibacterial properties of celery help fight bad breath and support a clean mouth.
How:
- Stimulates saliva production
- Fights bacteria responsible for bad odor and plaque
- Acts as a natural toothbrush due to its crunchy texture
Chewing raw celery after meals can naturally cleanse your mouth and freshen your breath.
13. May Help Prevent Certain Cancers
Anti-Cancer Effects:
- Inhibits the growth of cancer cells
- Reduces oxidative DNA damage
- Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in harmful cells
While not a cure, celery may offer protective effects against cancers of the colon, pancreas, breast, and liver.
14. Reduces Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Because of its natural diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, celery can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract and reduce risk of infection.
Benefits for UTI Prevention:
- Promotes frequent urination
- Cleanses the bladder and kidneys
- Reduces pain and inflammation in the urinary tract
Drink celery juice with cranberry or lemon for enhanced cleansing effects.
Best Ways to Add Celery to Your Diet
| Method | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Raw celery sticks | Maximum fiber and crunch |
| Celery juice | Fast absorption, powerful cleansing |
| Smoothies | Blends well with apple, lemon, cucumber |
| Soups & stews | Adds flavor and nutrients |
| Chopped in salads | Easy to mix into any meal |
| Celery seed spice | Concentrated flavor with added benefits |
Possible Side Effects of Eating Too Much Celery
While celery is generally safe, there are a few considerations:
- Allergic reactions: Rare, but possible in sensitive individuals
- High fiber intake: May cause bloating or gas if introduced too suddenly
- Photosensitivity: In very high amounts, celery may increase sensitivity to sunlight due to psoralens
- Pesticide residue: Celery ranks high on the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list – buy organic when possible
Eating celery every day for just one week can lead to noticeable health benefits – from improved digestion and reduced inflammation to better hydration and glowing skin. And the best part? It’s cheap, accessible, and easy to prepare.
Whether you prefer it raw, juiced, or cooked, incorporating celery into your daily routine is a simple habit that can have powerful long-term effects on your health.
