celery root benefits

When it comes to celery, very few people take the time to consider the root of the popular green stalk’s virtues. Celery root is a delicious and highly-underrated root vegetable that packs more punch than flavor and nutrition alone. It is incredibly versatile in the kitchen and is a potato-lover-but-shunner’s dream come true. Start using celery root more, and you will improve the quality and diversity of your diet at once.

Various types of celery bear an edible root, otherwise known as “celeriac”, “turnip-rooted celery” or “knob celery”. The general term to describe all varieties is “celery root”. It is a low-starch vegetable and is high in fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, vitamins A, C, K and E and carotene. In just one cup, you will find a mere 66 calories, but 468 milligrams of potassium, 2.8 grams of dietary fiber, 2.3 grams of protein, 20 percent of your RDA of vitamin C, 15 percent of your RDA of vitamin B6, 7 percent of your RDA of magnesium and 6 percent each of your RDA of calcium and iron.

Because of potassium content, celery root is beneficial for the cardiovascular system. The vegetable can also improve the health of your urinary system and prevent kidney stones.

Celery root’s vitamin B6 content helps to maintain normal nerve function, make hemoglobin, break down proteins and regulate blood sugar levels. Its high vitamin B6 levels also means that celery root can maintain brain health.

The abundance of vitamin C in celery root also lends to its capacity to heal wounds, build stronger and healthier skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels, repair and maintain cartilage, bones and teeth and fight free radicals as to maintain youthfulness.

My favorite way to enjoy celery root is simply baking it with butter and seasoning with salt and pepper. This way, I can enjoy its inherently delightful taste that is reminiscent of celery but smoother and somewhat creamy in texture. I also like to use celery root as the base of a low-starch mashed “potato” dish – simply boil in water, drain, and then blend with butter and seasonings. You can also enjoy it in place of potatoes for a soup or hash browns.

However you have your celery root, you will most certainly love it!

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Photo Credit: Skånska Matupplevelser