Celery: Why It’s Good, How to Pick It, and Simple Ways to Use It

Ever wonder why you see celery in so many health articles? It’s not just crunchy filler for a snack plate. Celery packs water, fiber, and a handful of vitamins that can help keep blood pressure steady and digestion smooth. Below we’ll break down what makes it useful, how to choose the best stalks at the store, and easy ideas to add more celery to your meals.

What makes celery good for you?

First off, celery is mostly water—about 95%—so it’s great for staying hydrated without extra calories. One large stalk gives you roughly 10 calories, a bit of vitamin K, and small amounts of vitamin A, C, and potassium. The fiber in celery helps move food through your gut, which can lower constipation risk.

Beyond basic nutrition, celery contains compounds called phthalides that may help relax blood vessel walls. Some people notice a modest drop in blood pressure after eating celery regularly. It also has antioxidants like flavonoids that fight free‑radical damage. While you shouldn’t rely on celery alone for medical treatment, it’s an easy way to add supportive nutrients.

People love celery juice because it’s quick to drink and feels refreshing. A glass of pure juice provides a concentrated dose of the plant’s minerals, but remember it also removes most fiber. If you’re after fiber benefits, eat the stalks whole or chop them into salads.

How to shop & store celery

When you walk down the produce aisle, look for crisp, firm stalks with bright green strings. Avoid any that are limp, have brown spots, or feel rubbery—those signs mean it’s past its prime. The leaves attached to the base should be fresh and not wilted; they actually contain extra nutrients.

After you bring celery home, keep it in a plastic bag with a little damp paper towel inside. Store it in the crisper drawer of your fridge. This method can extend freshness for up to two weeks. If you notice the ends drying out, trim them off and rewrap; the rest will stay crunchy.

Got extra celery you can’t use right away? Cut it into sticks, place them in a container with water, and keep the lid on. Change the water every day and you’ll have ready‑to‑eat snacks for several days. For longer storage, blanch the stalks briefly, then freeze them—great for soups or stir‑fries later.

Now that you know what to look for and how to keep it fresh, try a few easy ways to enjoy celery daily. Toss raw sticks into a dip made of Greek yogurt and herbs for a quick snack. Add chopped celery to your favorite chicken salad for extra crunch without many calories. Stir a few pieces into soups or stews; they soften but still add that subtle flavor.

If you’re curious about the juice trend, blend a handful of stalks with an apple or lemon for taste balance. Start with a small glass to see how your stomach handles it—some people feel mild gas from the natural fibers. Drink it in the morning on an empty stomach if you want that refreshing boost.

Finally, keep an eye on side effects. Eating huge amounts of celery can lead to excess potassium for those with kidney issues, and the plant’s natural sodium may affect a low‑salt diet. As long as you stick to normal serving sizes—about 2–3 stalks a day—you’ll reap benefits without risk.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, grab a bunch of fresh celery, store it right, and try one of these simple ideas. Your body will thank you for the extra hydration, fiber, and gentle nutrients that this humble veggie provides.