Juicing is a common weight-loss method. Juices are typically made from vegetables and fruits that have been pulsed through a juicer to extract the pulp, or fiber, from the drinkable liquid portion. Since most of the fiber is extracted during juicing, the juice is easier to digest than eating most fruits and vegetables whole. Although there is a lack of scientific research, celery juice may aid in weight-loss efforts if only because of its low calorie and fat content. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, the calories in juices add up, and should be part of a well-balanced diet.
Celery Nutrition
Celery is a nutritionally rich vegetable that is a source of several vitamins and minerals. The stems of the celery plant provide an excellent source of vitamins B-1, B-2, B-6 and C. They are also rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, iron and essential amino acids. In addition, the leaves of the celery plant are high in vitamin A. According to Livestrong.com, one large stalk of celery, or approximately 1/2 a cup chopped, provides 10 calories, 0 g of fat and 2 g of carbohydrates.
Celery Juice and Hydration
The high liquid and water content of celery juice makes it a hydrating food, so it may help to prevent dehydration. Dehydration is often mistaken for hunger cravings, and dieters tend to reach for food versus a drink first. It also contributes to lethargy, weakness, nausea, difficulty concentration and slowed energy levels. A decrease in energy contributes to a slowed metabolic rate, which can reduce the rate of calorie burning. This prevents weight-loss from happening and may lead to weight gain.
Weight Loss
According to Natural News.com, a consistent daily intake of celery juice may aid in weight-loss. Liquid calories tend to fill people up quicker, due to their high water content. Also, the filling factor prevents mindless snacking and over-eating that leads to excess calorie intake and weight-gain. Replacing typical high-fat and sugar snack-type foods such as cookies, muffins, granola bars and chips with a low-calorie juice will decrease overall daily caloric intake to achieve weight-loss over time.
Risk Factors
Celery juice may not be a suitable drink option for everyone. Celery itself is high in vitamin K, which according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, is involved in the chemical reactions in the body that lead to blood clots. People taking medications, such as coumadin, to prevent the risk of blood clots should avoid eating foods high in this vitamin to prevent complications. Celery juice may provide as high as 89 mcg of vitamin K, which is 90 percent of the recommended daily intake. The NIH reports that people on blood-thinning medications should limit their intake of foods higher than 60 percent of the recommended daily allowance.
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