Celery and Peanut Butter: Nutrition, Benefits, Downsides (2024)

FAQs

Celery and Peanut Butter: Nutrition, Benefits, Downsides? ›

Celery with peanut butter is a nutrient-rich snack. Celery and peanut butter are two minimally processed, nutrient-rich foods. As a result, combining the two results in a snack that's rich in fiber and protein. It's also a good source of niacin, manganese, copper, magnesium, and heart-healthy fats ( 1 , 2 ).

Celery provides a good delivery for peanut butter, which is high in protein -- with 7 to 8 grams per 2 tablespoons -- and a source of healthy, unsaturated fats. Both protein and fats take longer to digest than carbohydrates, so the snack keeps you satisfied longer than a handful of crackers or chips.

Is there a downside to eating peanut butter? Peanut butter is a higher-calorie food, so keep that in mind if you are monitoring your calorie intake. Some peanut butters can be higher in added sugars, hydrogenated oils and salt, so double-check the label and choose the option that works best for you.

In addition to its vitamin and mineral content, celery is also a source of protective plant compounds called flavonoids, which have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Diets high in fibrous foods, like celery, are also associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

Furthermore, celery contains antioxidants called flavones, which have been studied for their role in lowering blood sugar levels. Adding a tablespoon or two (about 16–32 grams) of peanut butter to celery sticks adds some extra protein and fiber to the snack, which will benefit your blood sugar control even more.

Working celery into your diet (whether in juice or stalk form) may also benefit your heart health. Celery contains phthalides, a phytochemical that may help relax the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels and lower blood pressure. But celery won't do this all on its own — it's just one vegetable after all.

You can make it part of a healthy diet. It's also easy to find in the grocery store, inexpensive, and contains several vital nutrients. Cons. Celery root is high in fiber, which can sometimes be tough on your stomach and cause gas.

Lowers heart disease risk: Oleic acid is one of the main fats in peanut butter, and it helps regulate cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Keeping these factors under control lowers your risk of developing heart disease.

Peanut butter is a decent and inexpensive protein source that fits well into eating on a frugal and spare diet provided there are no allergy concerns. Of course it's okay. I will even let you extend to two tablespoons per day. As long as you use 100% peanuts with no sugar, salt, palm oil or any other muck.

Peanut butter is high in fat and calories

Peanut butter is a calorie-dense food that's rich in heart-healthy fats. Just 2 tablespoons (32 grams) provide 204 calories and 16 grams of fat ( 1 , 2 ). Therefore, it's a great food for a healthy, balanced diet, but large amounts may increase your daily calorie intake.

When not to eat celery? ›

Don't use celery if you have high or low thyroid levels or are taking medication for a thyroid disorder.

Although celery is mainly made up of water, science has discovered several beneficial compounds in its seeds, flesh, and roots, including antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta carotene, polysaccharides, apigenin, and flavonoids. These plant compounds have been shown to provide benefits for kidney health.

Eating the whole food, though, is better. Celery stalk salt content is low, and you also get fiber, magnesium and potassium to help regulate your blood pressure, as well. “To get the benefit, you should eat roughly four stalks – one cup, chopped – of celery daily,” Dr. Laffin says.

But there is one food that stands alone as the best snack for lower blood sugar: nuts. Nuts are delicious, nutritious and incredibly versatile as far as snack foods go. Plus, they can be stored at room temperature (or in the freezer for longer periods) and are great for grab-and-go snacks.

Beans and lentils

Beans and lentils are rich in magnesium, fiber, and protein. These nutrients may be able to help lower blood sugar. They're particularly high in soluble fiber and resistant starch, which help slow digestion and may improve blood sugar response after meals ( 30 ).

Can this snack help you lose weight? Celery with peanut butter is rich in fiber, protein, and fat — three nutrients that help fight hunger and increase feelings of fullness. As a result, having this snack as part of a balanced diet may help you lose weight ( 11 , 12 ).

Celery is a popular vegetable that has few calories and is rich in nutrients like fiber. A lot of people drink celery juice to reduce belly fat, but there is a lack of scientific evidence to support this application.

As part of a balanced diet, a small serving of peanut butter can be a nutritious choice for a nighttime snack. Combining this with a piece of fruit, such as an apple or banana, or vegetables, such as celery, increases the fiber content and nutritional value of the snack.

One of the main fats in peanut butter is oleic acid. When substituted for other fats in your diet, oleic acid helps maintain good cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. Managing these levels in your body can lower the risk of heart disease. Peanut butter also contains omega-6 fatty acid.

Celery juice is low in sugar and contains potassium and vitamins A, C, and K. This popular drink may reduce inflammation and boost hydration, among other benefits. However, you shouldn't use celery juice to detox your body, as cleanses put you at risk of dangerous calorie restriction and nutrient deficiencies.