Sunday column

Is Celery Juice Actually Good for You? Everything You Should Know

Celery juice has become a wellness trend, praised for its refreshing taste and purported health benefits. But what’s really inside this green drink, and is it as beneficial as some claim? Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional profile, advantages, and potential downsides of celery juice.

Lena Hartwell

Desk editor

Editor’s note

The full column continues in quiet type below.

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Sunday Broadsheet

Why People Drink Celery Juice

Celery juice is packed with hydration and nutrients, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Supporters say it helps with skin clarity, inflammation, digestion, and even chronic conditions—but how much of this is rooted in science?

Hydration and Low Sugar Content

Since celery is made up mostly of water, juicing it provides an easy way to stay hydrated. Adequate fluid intake is essential for brain performance, temperature regulation, kidney function, and waste removal.

Moreover, celery juice is naturally low in sugar, with about 3 grams per 240 mL (1 cup). In contrast to sweetened drinks like sodas or energy drinks, which contribute significantly to added sugar intake, celery juice offers a lighter, healthier option.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

Celery contains plant-based chemicals, known as phytonutrients, that may help manage inflammation. These act as antioxidants—substances that neutralize free radicals in the body, which are known to contribute to aging and disease.

A diet rich in antioxidants has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. These compounds may also support skin health and general immune function.

Gut-Friendly Potential

Some elements in celery, like luteolin, have been studied for their anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive system. Though most research has been done on animals or in lab settings, luteolin has shown promise in supporting a balanced gut environment.

One study in mice suggested that fermented celery juice may encourage a healthier microbiome. However, fermented versions differ significantly from the fresh juice people usually make at home.

It’s also worth noting that most celery juice is strained to remove pulp, which reduces fiber content. Since dietary fiber is essential for digestive health, consuming unfiltered juice—or eating raw celery—may offer more benefit for your gut.

Nutritional Breakdown

A single cup (about 240 mL) of celery juice delivers a range of vitamins and minerals, including:

33 calories

2 grams of protein

7 grams of carbohydrates

3 grams of natural sugar

Key micronutrients include:

Potassium – 13% of your daily needs

Vitamin K – 58% of the recommended intake

Folate – 21% of your daily requirement

Vitamin C – 8% of the daily value

Vitamin A – 6% of the daily value

Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in smaller yet useful amounts

It also offers trace levels of copper, zinc, and B vitamins, as well as a variety of antioxidant compounds.

So, Is Celery Juice Worth It?

Celery juice is certainly a nutritious drink and a better alternative to sugary beverages. It can keep you hydrated, delivers essential vitamins, and includes plant compounds that may support overall wellness. Still, many health claims—especially those suggesting it cures serious conditions—aren’t backed by solid scientific evidence.

If you enjoy the taste and find it fits well into your diet, celery juice can be a refreshing, health-conscious choice. Just remember: variety is key. Combine it with other fruits, vegetables, and whole foods to get the most out of your nutrition.

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