Celery doesn’t get much recognition beyond salads and Ants on a Log, but it should.

Though celery is roughly 95 percent waterTrusted Source, there are a number of reasons that this vegetable should be part of your daily routine.

First, celery is full of nutrients, such as potassium, calcium, and vitamins, and is packed with a plethora of antioxidants. In fact, a single stalk of celery contains at least 12 different antioxidantsTrusted Source, including vitamin C, beta carotene, and flavonoids.

Now, let’s talk digestion. Because of celery’s moderate fiber content (1.6 grams per 1 cup stalks), celery supports a healthy digestive system and promotes regularity. Unfortunately though, juicing celery causes it to lose some fiber content.

A diet high in fiber may aid in diabetes prevention. Celery also has a very low glycemic index, which can help keep blood sugar in check. In one study Trusted Source, celery was found to have a positive effect on blood sugar levels in older volunteers with prediabetes who consumed 250 milligrams (mg) of celery leaf, 3 times per day.

Celery even has anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to it containing an abundance of flavonoids. For this reason, this green veg may protect the body against inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

Munching on celery stalks isn’t for everyone, though, which is why juicing it is another great way to reap some of its nutritional benefits.

If you don’t care for the taste of celery juice, add half a green apple while juicing and a squeeze of fresh lemon (full recipe below). This will brighten up the flavor of the celery juice and add a bit of natural sweetness.

No juicer? No problem. Celery can be added to smoothies or blended on its own in a high-speed blender with some filtered water, and strained through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer before serving.

It’s suggested that you consume one, 16-ounce glass of celery juice every morning for at least one full week to reap many of the benefits.