What’s the Deal with the Celery Juice Trend?

With more than 80,000 posts on Instagram under the tag #celeryjuice (and growing), with claims to improve energy levels, clear up acne, and even heal the body of chronic illnesses, it looks like the celery juice trend isn’t slowing down any time soon.

While undoubtedly a healthful food, the potential health benefits of celery have been studied in some animal and in vitro studies. But there’s a catch. There is little research backing up the celery juice trend and its proposed benefits in humans.

First touted for its health benefits by Anthony William, best known as the Medical Medium, celery juice has been said to “restore your central nervous system,” “rebuild your hydrochloric acid,” and “strengthen your bile” – all ways suggesting to “kill off pathogens” and “rid the body of toxins and poisons.” But again, these claims have not yet been met with scientific substantiation.

My biggest word of caution is to keep it all in perspective. While as a society we often look for a quick-fix or the next trendy bandwagon to hop on in hopes to cure our health woes, it’s our overall lifestyle habits that have the most significant impact on our long-term health.

Even so, if downing a glass of celery juice first thing in the morning sets you on the path for more mindful eating choices throughout the day and doesn’t add any stress to your already busy morning, it’s not a terrible way to start your day. I’ve seen far worse diet trends hit the mainstream media, and I don’t necessarily want to deter people from getting so excited about a vegetable.

One serving of celery – just two large stalks or one cup – is an excellent source of potassium and vitamins A and K. What’s more, celery has a high-water content – an added bonus in terms of promoting hydration. As with all juicing though, the vegetable’s precious fiber is discarded, which is unfortunate considering that most Americans are only getting about half of the recommended daily intake.

According to William’s Instagram, he recommends starting with 16-ounces of straight celery juice (about one large bunch), first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to reap the maximum benefits. Celery juice or not, be sure to enjoy a balanced breakfast – with fiber, healthy fat, and protein to fuel your morning and keep your energy levels up. Follow up with balanced meals and snacks, rich in a variety of fruits and veggies, throughout the day.

If you’d like to try whipping up your own glass of celery juice in your nutribullet, follow the simple steps in this recipe.

After sipping on your celery juice, enjoy one of these balanced good-for-you breakfast options.

• AB & J Smoothie – Made with five simple ingredients, this protein-packed smoothie is like a PB&J in a cup!
• Breakfast Lift – Get a heart-healthy morning boost with this breakfast smoothie!
• Power Breakfast Shakeup – This energizing and protein-packed smoothie will help you power through your day!

There are many healthy and nutritionally-balanced ways to improve your health. You can still drink celery juice, but be sure to enjoy other nutrient-rich whole foods, too!