Celery benefits the brain by providing compounds like luteolin and apigenin, which reduce inflammation, protect neurons, and may improve memory and cognitive function, with research in animal models showing potential for conditions like Alzheimer's and stroke by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress, though more human studies are needed. It contains 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP), linked to improved cognitive function, and antioxidants that support overall nerve health and relaxation.
Pre-clinical studies have shown that 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP), a bioactive compound found in celery, has neuroprotective properties. NBP has shown efficacy in animal models, improving cognitive impairment and reducing amyloid-beta levels.
Crunchy, crisp, and refreshing, celery is a low-fat, low-calorie vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. While celery has a number of health benefits, it is also high in fiber, which means that if you eat it in high quantities, you could develop digestion problems like gas, stomach pain, and bloating.
8 Superfoods for Brain Health
Eating celery daily—or consistently—will help you get more fiber, vitamin K and other nutrients that are essential for fueling digestive health, weight-related goals, bone health and even support your brain. Registered dietitians shared the benefits of regular celery consumption.
1. Protects your heart. The low sodium content of celery makes it a good choice if you have high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. The stalks are also high in micronutrients that protect your heart and help keep high blood pressure in check.
For example, carrots are incredibly rich in beta-carotene and have more fiber,1 while celery is higher in vitamin K and lower in calories and carbohydrates.
Foods containing high levels of antioxidants such as berries and kiwis are effective in helping to prevent and reduce inflammation. Colorful vegetables, dark chocolate and turmeric can also go a long way in protecting the brain from early onset dementia.
1. Almonds. There you have it — the humble almond can be considered the most nutrient-dense food on the planet. Used to the spotlight by now, almonds have been at the center of multiple studies on heart health and diabetes-related benefits.
About 75% of the brain is made up of water
This means that dehydration, even as small as 2%, can have a negative effect on brain functions. Dehydration and a loss of sodium and electrolytes can cause acute changes in memory and attention.
Fruit, Greens & Vegetable Juices
Just like lemon juice, adding any ingredients like kale, apple, carrot, and cucumber to your celery juice will greatly diminish its healing properties. As tempting as it is to add some kale, apple, lemon, ginger, carrot, or another food, keep that for another juice later in the day.
1. Spinach. Spinach is a leafy green vegetable and a great source of calcium, vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. Due to its iron and calcium content, spinach is a great addition to any meat- or dairy-free diet.
Blueberries, the well-known 'super fruit,' could help fight Alzheimer's - YouTube.
While celery is generally a healthy addition to most diets, it is important to note that consuming it in excess may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. Celery contains mannitol, a type of sugar alcohol, which, in high concentrations, has been linked to digestive issues such as bloating or gas.
Chronic inflammation can damage the brain, affecting mood and cognitive function over time. Neuroinflammation is linked to disorders like Alzheimer's and depression. Key lifestyle changes—like better sleep, less sugar, and regular exercise—can help target brain inflammation.
A peanut butter and jelly sandwich (PB&J) adds about 33 minutes to your healthy lifespan per serving, according to a University of Michigan study that measured life expectancy impacts of over 5,850 foods using the Health Nutritional Index (HNI). This sandwich tops the list for adding time, with nuts and seeds also being highly beneficial (around 25 mins) and processed items like hot dogs subtracting time.
Best Foods for Sleep
Dark green, leafy vegetables may all be considered superfoods, but many think kale wins the prize for its high levels of vitamins C and K – needed for normal bone function and blood clotting. Kale also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two nutrients thought to be important for eye health.
A large study found that older adults who took vitamin D had a 40% lower chance of developing dementia than those who didn't. You can get vitamin D from food like fish, eggs, and vitamin D-fortified milk.
You Miss Out on Sleep
You do a few things you know you shouldn't -- we all do. But some of those bad habits can take a toll on your brain. For example, lack of sleep may be a cause of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.
Higher intake of flavonoids, particularly from berries, appears to reduce rates of cognitive decline in older adults.
It supports heart health.
Celery is low in sodium and has nutrients that can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. It offers potassium and magnesium, which help your heart beat normally. It also has natural plant compounds that help blood flow better.
On most days, try to get at least one serving from each of the following categories: dark green leafy vegetables; yellow or orange fruits and vegetables; red fruits and vegetables; legumes (beans) and peas; and citrus fruits.