Does Celery Juice Lower Blood Sugar? Science-Backed Facts
Celery juice may help lower blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index and potential anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed for conclusive evidence.
Celery juice has gained popularity as a health tonic, with claims ranging from detoxification to blood sugar control. But does it actually help regulate glucose levels? Research suggests celery juice may offer modest benefits for blood sugar management due to its unique nutrient profile and antioxidant content.
How Celery Juice Affects Blood Sugar
Several mechanisms make celery juice potentially beneficial for blood sugar control:
1. Low Glycemic Impact
With only 3 grams of carbohydrates per cup, celery juice has minimal effect on blood sugar. Its glycemic index is extremely low at 15, making it safe for diabetics when consumed in moderation.
2. Antioxidant Content
Celery contains flavonoids like apigenin and luteolin that reduce inflammation and may improve insulin sensitivity. A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found celery extract lowered blood sugar in prediabetic patients.
3. Phthalides Compounds
These unique phytochemicals in celery help relax blood vessels and may enhance glucose uptake by cells. Animal studies show they reduce fasting blood sugar by up to 20%.
Scientific Evidence on Celery and Blood Sugar
| Study | Participants | Results |
|---|---|---|
| Journal of Medicinal Food (2019) | Prediabetic adults | 250mg celery leaf extract 3x daily reduced fasting glucose by 12% |
| Phytotherapy Research (2017) | Diabetic rats | Celery seed extract lowered HbA1c by 1.5% |
| Nutrition Journal (2015) | Healthy adults | Celery juice caused 25% smaller glucose spike than orange juice |
How to Use Celery Juice for Blood Sugar Control
For optimal results:
- Use a cold press juicer to preserve nutrients
- Drink 8-16 oz on an empty stomach in the morning
- Combine with lemon juice or ginger to enhance benefits
- Monitor blood sugar response with a glucose meter
Recipe for Blood-Sugar Friendly Celery Juice
- Wash 8-10 organic celery stalks
- Juice using a vegetable juicer
- Add 1/2 lemon (peeled)
- Optional: 1 inch fresh ginger root
- Strain and drink immediately
Limitations and Considerations
While promising, celery juice isn’t a magic bullet:
- Effects are modest compared to medication
- Juicing removes beneficial fiber
- May interact with blood thinners due to vitamin K content
- Some people report digestive discomfort
According to a review by Ultrahuman, pairing celery juice with protein and healthy fats creates a more balanced approach to blood sugar management.
Celery Juice vs Whole Celery for Blood Sugar
While juicing concentrates nutrients, eating whole celery provides:
- More fiber (1.6g per cup)
- Longer digestion time for steadier glucose release
- Greater satiety benefits
For diabetes management, alternating between juiced and whole celery may offer the best of both approaches.
