Celery seed is not a good source of vitamins. While celery does contain some essential vitamins and minerals, the amount is too small to make much of an impact on our health. Celery is rich in vitamin K, but it contains very low amounts (about 1 milligram per 100 grams) of other B-complex vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, choline, and folates. It has antioxidant properties due to its content of phenolic compounds. However, the amount of antioxidants in celery is much lower than in other vegetables, so it cannot be considered a reliable source of dietary antioxidants.
Introduction
Celery seeds are the dried, unripened fruits of Apium graveolens, a vegetable that is well established around the world for its flavor, aroma and health benefits. Throughout history, celery has been used for countless medicinal functions, including boosting energy and restoring balance in human systems. A primary factor that contributes to these effects is their concentration of vitamins and active phytonutrients. Each seed is packed with essential nutrients that can improve overall health, from reducing inflammation to aid prevention against cancer. This paper will explore the composition of vitamins found in celery seed and discuss how they may have an impact on our health.
Vitamins Found in Celery Seeds
Celery contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, organic compounds and other phytonutrients. Some notable vitamins include:
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant found mainly in fruit and vegetables. It helps fight off infections, repair cells and tissue damage, prevent premature aging, and strengthen immune system. Celery contains roughly 4% of the recommended daily value (DV) per tablespoon.
Vitamin B6: Also known as pyridoxine, vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient for metabolism processing, brain development and digestion. Studies suggest it can also reduce chronic inflammation, lower risk of diseases, such as heart disease and colon cancer, aid in weight loss, and protect against allergies. Celery contains 2 % DV per teaspoon.
Folic acid: Folic acid or folate is typically found in leafy green vegetables and is important for cellular growth and development. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to certain birth defects and various neurological disorders. Celery provides 1-2% DV per tablespoon.
Niacin: Niacin, also referred to as nicotinic acid, is primarily responsible for helping regulate cholesterol levels, diabetic control, and even skin health. Research suggests that niacin may be beneficial in preventing Alzheimer’s Disease. Celery provides 8% DV per cup.
Riboflavin: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining cell function and repairing damaged nerves. Studies suggest that riboflavin intake may reduce risks of developing type 2 diabetes and stroke. Celery gives 6-7% DV per stalk.
Minerals found in Celery Seeds
Alongside the presence of essential vitamins and compounds, celery also contains various minerals that offer similar health and wellness benefits. Notable examples include:
Calcium: Calcium can help maintain healthy bones, teeth and muscles. The mineral is also necessary for blood clotting, nerve signaling, bone formation, and protection from osteoporosis. Celery offers 11% DV per serving.
Magnesium: Magnesium regulates calcium and potassium, helps increase energy levels and reduce fatigue, relaxes muscles and nerves, and builds strong teeth and bones. Rich dietary sources of magnesium may act as a mild laxative and relief of constipation. Approximately 25 mg of each stalk add up to 7% DV.
Potassium: Potassium serves many key roles in nervous system functioning, muscle contraction and regulating other vital bodily processes like heartbeats. A deficiency of this mineral could cause cardiac arrest and irregular heartbeat. One teaspoon provides approximately 3% DV.
Selenium: Selenium helps support thyroid hormone production, reduces inflammation, and repairs dull skin. Its antioxidant properties have been suggested to play a major role in preventing some forms of cancer, while aiding depression and anxiety. Just ¼ tsp of celery seeds satisfy 10% DV.
Conclusion
In conclusion, research exploring the vitamin content of celery seed indicates that not only are the antioxidants and phytonutrients valuable for general health, but so are the vitamins and minerals within them. Due to their high concentrations in every seed, adding celery seed to your diet can provide numerous health benefits ranging from reduction of inflammation to strengthening immunity. While there is still much left to learn about the specific impacts of their vitamins and minerals, one thing remains clear; the abundance of nourishing elements make celery seed a superfood worth incorporating into any balanced lifestyle.
Vitamin A | 0.003 mg | |
Beta-Carotene | 0.031 mg | |
Vitamin E | 0.00107 grams | |
Vitamin C | 0.0171 grams | |
Vitamin B1 | 0.34 mg | |
Vitamin B2 | 0.29 mg | |
Vitamin B3 | 0.00306 grams | |
Vitamin B4 | 0.0247 grams | |
Vitamin B6 | 0.89 mg | |
Vitamin B9 | 0.01 mg |