Recently, you might have seen a bright green juice circling the internet: celery juice. It seems that many health and wellness influencers on social media have flocked towards this drink, with some going as far as calling it a “life changing elixir”. Let’s take a look into these claims and what current research is telling us!
Where Did This All Begin?
The celery juice trend began over 20 years ago by self-proclaimed “medical medium” and #1 New York Times best-selling author, Anthony Williams. While Williams is not a health-care practitioner, he’s gained a large following in the wellness world. His belief is that 16 oz of celery juice daily on an empty stomach “can change someone’s life”. Claims include “relief and healing from all kinds of acute and chronic illnesses & symptoms, including digestive issues, skin conditions, migraines, fatigue, autoimmune illnesses, brain fog, etc.”. This has led him to write six books and has even gained the support of celebrities such and Gwyneth Paltrow, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Robert DeNiro. Now, it seems that this juice has recently gained traction and has caught the eyes of many over social media.
How is it Made and What is the Serving Size?
Celery juice is made using a juicer machine. The process starts by inserting celery, which then strains into a juice form, separating the solid pulp. One head of celery (about 9-12 large stalks) yields about 16 oz of fresh juice. According to Williams, 16 oz is the suggested serving size for this beverage. In addition, it is recommended that the juice be made with organic celery and be consumed within 24 hours of of making.
What is the Research Saying?
Unfortunately, there is very little research on the benefits of celery juice. A study in 2017 by the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine identified that there are several powerful antioxidants (caffeic acid, ferric acid, tannin, and saponin) found in the leaves and seeds of celery. Antioxidants are compounds that can help slow cell damage caused by potentially-dangerous free radicals produced by the body. However, there are no current human studies on the benefits of celery juice.
So, Should I Still Drink Celery Juice?
Overall, celery juice has very little potential negative side-effects. Celery is a good source of potassium, vitamin K, and flavonoids, which help keep electrolyte balance, and function as antioxidants. A potential reason for some of celery juice’s improvement on digestion and bloating could be due to its high-water content (with many Americans not drinking enough). It is important to note that by juicing fruits and vegetables, a bulk of the fiber is being discarded – which is important role in a healthy gut and keeping you full and satisfied. A great way to keep fiber in your fruit and vegetable beverages is by making smoothies. Nevertheless, it is essential to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, as each gives you an array of different vitamins and minerals.
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Written by Masey Taylor, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern
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