It’s one of the latest trends in healthy dieting. Celery juice has made headlines on popular sites like Goop, Forbes and Shape, and the list of its potential benefits has made the bright green concoction an Instagram sensation. Of course, no one food or drink is ever a cure-all, but the real benefits that come with this one might have you reaching for your juicer.

Drinking celery juice just may strengthen the immune system, protect eye health, fight against gout, improve blood sugar, combat metabolic syndrome, lower the risk of or even prevent cancer, improve fertility and reduce inflammation. But be aware that it might interact with blood thinners and excessive use can have adverse effects on thyroid and fertility. Let's look closer at this trend. Is it worth diving in?

Strengthens the Immune System

Need better defenses against colds and flu? Celery juice can help strengthen the immune system. For its low calorie count, celery contributes a broad variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B6 and C, both of which are important for proper immune function. It’s also high in antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and may help improve overall health.

Protects Eye Health

Concerned about preserving eyesight? Celery is high in vitamin A, particularly beta carotene and lutein. Studies have shown that lutein and other forms of vitamin A can protect against age-related eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.

Fights Gout

Fight gout the natural way by juicing the whole, mature stalk. Though celery seeds can reduce uric acid levels in the blood, which can lower the rate of crystal accumulation in the joints. The high antioxidant content in celery also reduces inflammation, helping to alleviate gout-related swelling and pain.

Improves Blood Sugar

Celery seed extract may also improve blood sugar levels. In a study performed on diabetic rats, celery seed extract performed nearly as well in reducing blood sugar as an insulin treatment. Another study on prediabetic seniors showed celery leaf juice is also effective in reducing sugar levels.

Combats Metabolic Syndrome

Inflammation and high blood sugar are two huge contributors to symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome. Elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also common symptoms, leading to increased heart disease risks. The antioxidants and flavonoids in celery help combat all of these health issues.

Protects Against Cancer

Celery contains numerous compounds that may protect against cancer. One of its flavonoids, in particular, apigenin, has shown great promise in preventing several different types of tumors. In people who already have cancer, this flavonoid may have the power to slow tumor growth and prevent or delay metastasis.

Improves Fertility

Celery juice may also have the power to improve fertility. A 2017 meta-analysis of multiple studies showed celery juice temporarily increases fertility. Don’t go crazy with the juicing quite yet, though: Excessive or prolonged celery intake may have the opposite effect.

Reduces Inflammation

Celery juice might provide relief for those suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions. One study reveals how well celery’s numerous antioxidants and polyphenols can work against inflammation. The compounds also appear to be effective against related pain.

A Word of Caution

Celery juice might be great for most people, but it’s not right for everyone. For example, celery is high in vitamin K, which can interfere with the effectiveness of blood thinners. Excessive celery consumption may cause hyperthyroidism, so if you do drink celery juice, keep it in moderation and don't go for the large green glass every single day. Celery also contains a chemical called psoralen, which can cause sensitivity to the sun, so if you're a celery juice aficionado, maybe you'd better cover up or use sunscreen when outside to avoid complications.

Celery juice can be a great addition to nearly any healthy, balanced diet, adding vital nutrients and protecting the body against disease. But before you jump on the bandwagon, talk to a doctor to discuss any potential issues or interactions — and then with the go-ahead given, get juicing.

Copyright 2020, Wellness.com