Celery juice contains calories and can break a fast, but its low-calorie content may still align with certain fasting goals, depending on individual preferences.
Celery juice has gained massive popularity in recent years, but does it break your fast? The answer depends on your fasting goals and how much you consume. Let’s explore the science behind fasting and celery juice.
Nutritional Profile of Celery Juice
Celery juice is made by extracting liquid from celery stalks. A 16-ounce serving contains:
- 40 calories
- 4g net carbohydrates
- 2g protein
- Less than 1g fat
While these numbers seem low, they may still impact your fasting state. For comparison, a medium stalk of raw celery (about 8 inches long) contains just 5.6 calories and 1.1g carbs.
How Celery Juice Affects Different Types of Fasting
Weight Loss Fasting
If you’re fasting for weight loss, even small amounts of celery juice may break your fast. The carbohydrates and protein can stimulate insulin production, potentially stopping ketosis (fat burning). For best results, stick to water during fasting periods.
Gut Health Fasting
For gut cleansing through fasting, any food or drink besides water can interrupt the migrating motor complex (MMC) – your digestive system’s cleaning process. This includes celery juice, even in small amounts.
Religious Fasting
In most religious fasting traditions, anything besides water breaks the fast. This would include celery juice.
Scientific Perspective on Celery Juice and Fasting
Research shows that consuming more than 50 calories can break a fast. While celery juice is low in calories, a typical 16-ounce serving contains 40 calories – close to the threshold.
The USDA confirms that celery contains minimal calories but provides important nutrients like:
| Nutrient | Amount per cup (chopped) |
|---|---|
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Magnesium | 11mg |
| Potassium | 263mg |
| Vitamin C | 3.1mg |
When to Drink Celery Juice
If you want to include celery juice in your routine, consume it during your eating window when practicing intermittent fasting. This allows you to benefit from its nutrients without interrupting your fasted state.
Health Benefits of Celery Juice
While it may break a fast, celery juice offers several health benefits when consumed at the right time:
Rich in Antioxidants
Celery contains over 12 different antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Supports Digestion
The fiber in celery (1.6g per cup) promotes healthy digestion and gut function.
Low Glycemic Impact
With a low glycemic index, celery juice causes minimal blood sugar spikes, making it suitable for diabetics when consumed in moderation.
How to Make Celery Juice
For the highest quality juice:
- Choose organic celery to avoid pesticide exposure
- Use a cold press juicer to preserve nutrients
- Drink immediately after juicing for maximum benefits
If you don’t have a juicer, you can blend celery with water and strain it through a nut milk bag or fine mesh sieve.
Alternatives During Fasting
If you’re fasting but want flavor, consider these zero-calorie options:
- Plain water
- Sparkling water
- Black coffee (in moderation)
- Unsweetened tea
Remember that any beverage with calories, artificial sweeteners, or additives may break your fast and disrupt your goals.
Expert Recommendations
Most health professionals recommend:
- Avoiding celery juice during fasting periods
- Consuming it during eating windows instead
- Focusing on whole celery stalks for fiber benefits
- Consulting a doctor before making significant dietary changes
If you’re looking for fasting-friendly recipes for your eating window, check out our guide to the best juicers for vegetables to maximize nutrient intake when breaking your fast.
