Celery Juice Cleanse: What Is It and Does It Actually Work?

If you follow the digital world of wellness and health, there is always a new trend that promises amazing results. The celery juice cleanse has gained popularity for its supposed detoxifying properties and ability to improve digestion. Many influencers and celebrities swear by this new life hack. But is this just another passing fad or is there some truth to its benefits?

What Is the Celery Juice Cleanse?

Celery juice is popular as a health tonic, offering weight loss benefits, enhanced workout energy, and improved skin appearance. However, its nutritional value varies depending on the ingredients. Some recipes and store-bought versions include more than just celery. An easy homemade version, containing only celery and apples for natural sweetness, is praised for its health benefits and healing properties. It claims to boost energy and immunity while being refreshing, nutritious, and delicious.

What Are Some Benefits of Celery Juice?

Celery juice offers several benefits when added to a balanced diet:

1. Hydration

Due to its high water content, celery juice aids in staying hydrated. This is crucial for various bodily functions such as blood pressure regulation, brain function, and kidney health.

2. Low sugar content

With only 5 grams of naturally occurring sugar per cup, celery juice is a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, which can add significantly to added sugar intake and calorie intake.

3. Anti-inflammatory properties

The liquid contains phytonutrients that act as antioxidants, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Diets rich in antioxidants are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, and may also promote skin health.

Celery Juice Cleanse and Your Gut

Celery juice may impact your gut in various ways:

1. Beneficial plant compounds: They contain luteolin and pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), which are believed to reduce inflammation in the gut. However, more research is needed to understand their specific effects.
2. Fiber content: The unstrained liquid retains fiber, which is essential for gut health. Straining removes this fiber, minimizing the potential benefits for digestion. Therefore, consuming unstrained juice may be more beneficial for gut health.

However, this may not be great for everyone. This is particularly true for those with sensitive digestive systems like people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its high content of fermentable starches, known as FODMAPs, can lead to bloating and discomfort in some individuals. If you experience digestive issues after drinking the liquid, it’s best to avoid it and consult a professional to explore potential conditions like IBS.

False Claims Surrounding Celery Juice Cleanses

The popularity of celery juice has risen significantly, largely driven by claims from Anthony William, a self-proclaimed health expert without formal nutrition or medical training. William asserts that celery juice, containing “undiscovered cluster salts,” can cure various chronic illnesses by letting go of harmful gut bacteria. However, no scientific evidence supports the existence of these salts, and research on celery juice’s effects on conditions like acne, diabetes, liver disease, and weight loss is limited. Additionally, the notion that celery juice detoxifies the body is unfounded, as the body naturally detoxifies through organs like the liver, kidneys, intestines, and lungs, without the need for special drinks.

Cons of the Cleanse

While the drink offers some benefits, there are several cons to consider:

1. Sodium content

Celery juice contains sodium, with one cup containing around 215 mg. This could add significantly to your daily sodium intake, especially if you’re following a diet or have limits on salt intake.

2. Low fiber

Most of the juice is strained, removing its fiber content. Fiber is crucial for satiety and various health benefits, including weight management, gut health, and checking cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Drinking the liquid in place of a fiber-rich breakfast could leave you feeling hungry and may lead to wanting to eat more later in the day.

For those seeking to increase fiber intake, opting for fresh celery sticks might be a better choice.

Will you be testing out this cleanse any time soon?

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.

You might also want to read: What Is Gut Health and How Can You Improve It?