Celery has been part of the human diet for thousands of years. According to researchers at Iowa State University, the ancient Romans and Greeks used celery as a medicine. In modern times, healthy celery snacks are a refreshing alternative to chips and sweets, and diet celery recipes make it a little more pleasant to shed pounds. There is no magic celery weight loss formula, but the high amount of vitamins and low calories make celery a versatile addition to any weight loss plan.
Step 1
Wash celery in cold water to remove any sand or grit that might have remained during shipping. Wrap the stalks in plastic and keep them in your vegetable crisper. According to the experts at the MayoClinic.com, the best way to lose weight is to commit to lifestyle changes. Stocking the refrigerator with healthy snacks like celery is a good way to start.
Step 2
Keep celery sticks in the front of the refrigerator for a quick snack. Nibble on it to quiet hunger pangs while you decide what's for dinner. You will be less likely to make an unhealthy choice.
Step 3
Replace your usual chips or crackers with celery to dip into hummus, salsa or low-fat salad dressings. Celery is high in vitamins K and C, and 1 cup only has 19 calories.
Step 4
Smear a little bit of peanut butter on a celery stick for a crunchy, protein-filled snack that won't add too many calories to your diet.
Step 5
Make low-fat celery soup for those cold evenings when you crave something hot and hearty. Chop a large onion and 2 lbs. celery. Sauté them in 2 tbsp. olive oil, with a sprinkle of thyme and a little salt and pepper. Cook the celery and onions until they are soft and then add ½-cup of white wine, and let it boil until the wine has almost evaporated. Add 5 to 6 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of water and 2 peeled and diced potatoes. Cook until the potatoes are tender. Let the soup cool completely, blend it until it's smooth, correct the seasonings and reheat.
Tips and Warnings
- Place cut celery stalks into a cup of cold water and food coloring, and watch them change color as they absorb the water, making a healthy, silly snack for kids.
- Never go on a fad diet that relies only on celery, or you will be robbing your body of vital nutrients.
Things You'll Need
- Celery
- Water
- Plastic wrap
- Hummus
- Salsa
- Low-fat salad dressings
- Peanut butter
- Onion
- Olive oil
- Thyme
- Salt
- Pepper
- White wine
- Chicken broth
- Potatoes
- Blender
- Food coloring (optional)
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