Is it OK to drink celery juice before bed?
Celery juice has become a popular health trend in recent years. Some claim drinking it provides a range of health benefits, from reducing inflammation to aiding weight loss. But is it wise to drink celery juice before going to sleep at night? Here, we’ll explore the potential pros and cons of consuming celery juice in the evening.
Pros of drinking celery juice before bed
There are a few reasons why some people recommend drinking celery juice before bedtime:
- May promote relaxation
- Contains electrolytes
- May reduce acid reflux
May promote relaxation
Some proponents claim that celery juice contains compounds that help induce relaxation and sleep. This includes a compound called apigenin, which is a natural flavonoid also found in chamomile tea. Some research suggests apigenin may help initiate sleep.
However, the amount of apigenin in a 16 oz glass of celery juice is likely to be quite small. There isn’t strong evidence that this amount would have a meaningful impact on sleep.
Contains electrolytes
Celery juice provides electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Electrolytes are minerals that help maintain fluid balance and nerve transmission. Some people claim drinking celery juice restores electrolytes before bed.
However, celery juice only contains modest amounts of these electrolytes compared to what your body needs daily. While hydrating before bed is good, you’re likely getting sufficient electrolytes from your full day’s diet already.
May reduce acid reflux
Some say drinking celery juice before bed may help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Celery juice is alkaline, meaning it has a higher pH than acidic gastric juices. In theory, its alkalinity could neutralize some stomach acids and relieve acid reflux.
However, there isn’t strong clinical evidence that celery juice prevents or treats acid reflux. The juice itself also contains some acidic components, so its effects on stomach pH are likely minimal.
Cons of drinking celery juice before bed
On the other hand, there are some potential downsides to drinking celery juice before bedtime:
- Contains natural stimulants
- May interact with certain medications
- Possible frequent urination
- High salt content
Contains natural stimulants
Celery contains compounds that may stimulate the nervous system, including luteolin, kaempferol, and apigenin. For some, this stimulating effect may make it harder to relax and fall asleep.
However, the amount of stimulating compounds found in 16 oz celery juice is likely low. There’s no evidence this small amount could significantly disrupt sleep.
May interact with certain medications
Celery juice contains substances that may interact with certain prescription medications. Specifically, it contains furanocoumarins that can inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes metabolize around 60% of all medications.
If you take medications metabolized by CYP enzymes, check with your doctor before drinking celery juice regularly. This includes medications like antidepressants, statins, immune suppressors, and blood thinners.
Possible frequent urination
Drinking 16 oz of any liquid before bed can mean more bathroom trips during the night as your body filters and excretes the fluid. This interrupted sleep isn’t ideal and can leave you feeling tired the next day.
High salt content
Celery juice has a high salt content, with around 800 mg sodium per 16 oz. Consuming salty foods close to bedtime can potentially lead to elevated blood pressure, disrupted sleep, and next-day puffiness or bloating in salt-sensitive individuals.
Who should avoid drinking celery juice at night
While celery juice before bed is likely fine for most, some may want to avoid it. Here are some people who may want to refrain:
- Those with acid reflux – can exacerbate symptoms
- Anyone taking medications – potential interactions
- Those following a low-sodium diet – high in salt
- Those prone to nighttime urination – adds fluid intake
- Those who experience stimulation from caffeinated drinks – may also feel stimulation from compounds in celery
If you take any prescription medications or have issues like acid reflux or frequent nighttime urination, talk to your healthcare provider before making celery juice a nighttime habit.
Tips for drinking celery juice at night
If you want to drink celery juice in the evening, here are some tips to make it easier on your body:
- Drink at least 2 hours before bedtime to allow time for processing
- Limit to 8-12 oz to reduce bathroom trips and sodium content
- Balance with plain water to stay hydrated without excess salt
- Avoid adding other stimulants like lemon juice or ginger
- Talk to your doctor first if you take any medications or have underlying conditions
The bottom line
Having celery juice before bed won’t provide significant benefits for sleep. The potential relaxing compounds it contains are minimal, and it may even stimulate the nervous system in some people. However, having a small glass a few hours before bed is unlikely to cause major issues for most individuals.
As with any supplement or health trend, it’s wise to be skeptical of bold claims about celery juice. Introduce it cautiously and see how your body responds before making it a nightly habit.
Nutrition facts of celery juice
Here is an overview of the basic nutrition facts found in 16 ounces of straight celery juice:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 60 |
Carbs | 14g |
Sugar | 6g |
Fiber | 0.5g |
Protein | 1g |
Sodium | 800mg |
Potassium | 300mg |
Vitamin K | 30% DV |
Celery juice is very low in calories, protein, and fiber. It’s high in sodium compared to other vegetable juices. It also provides a good amount of vitamin K.
Potential benefits of celery juice
Drinking celery juice has become popular due to claims it can provide a range of health benefits. Here is some of the current research related to celery juice benefits:
Antioxidant content
Celery contains beneficial plant compounds like luteolin, tannins, and flavones. These function as antioxidants to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Hydration
Like other vegetable juices, celery juice provides fluid to help meet daily hydration needs. Proper hydration supports all functions of the body and can promote healthy skin, digestion, immunity, and energy levels.
Vitamin and mineral content
In addition to antioxidants, celery juice provides vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, folate, potassium, and some B vitamins. These micronutrients support cellular function and metabolic processes.
Possible cholesterol benefits
Animal studies suggest celery may help reduce LDL “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides. This effect hasn’t been researched in humans yet but could benefit heart health if proven effective.
Anti-inflammatory
Compounds in celery like polyacetylenes and flavones can inhibit inflammation pathways in the body. Chronic inflammation contributes to numerous diseases.
However, human data directly linking celery juice to reduced inflammation is lacking currently.
Are there downsides to drinking celery juice?
While celery juice may offer some benefits, there are some potential downsides to consider as well:
- High in sodium – too much can increase blood pressure
- Natural chemicals – can interact with medications
- Oxalates – may be problematic for those prone to kidney stones
- Sugar content – contains natural sugars that can impact blood sugar
- Allergies – celery is among the foods most likely to cause allergic reactions
Additionally, juicing celery removes the beneficial fiber content that would be present if eating whole celery stalks. The evidence is also lacking to back many of the bold claims made about celery juice online.
As with any supplement, it’s wise to speak with a healthcare provider before adding large amounts of celery juice to your routine, especially if you take any medications or have underlying health conditions.
How to make celery juice at home
It’s easy to make your own celery juice at home with just a few ingredients and tools:
Ingredients
- 1 bunch celery (8-12 ounces)
- Filtered water (optional)
- Lemon, ginger, or apple (optional)
Tools
- Juicer – Centrifugal or masticating/slow juicers work best
- Knife and cutting board
- Glass to collect juice
Instructions
- Wash celery stalks thoroughly and chop into pieces to fit through juicer
- Juice the celery, adding filtered water if needed to move through juicer
- Pour juice through a strainer to remove any foam or pulp
- Add lemon wedge, sliced ginger, or apple if desired for flavor
- Drink juice immediately or store covered in fridge for up to 2 days
Make sure to drink the juice right after preparing, as nutrients start degrading when exposed to air. Juice 2-3 bunches of celery at a time and store leftover juice to make the process easier.
Frequently asked questions
Does celery juice help you lose weight?
There’s no evidence that celery juice promotes weight loss. It’s very low in calories but won’t significantly impact metabolism or fat burning. The high water content can temporarily fill the stomach, but it won’t reduce appetite or food intake overall.
Is celery juice good for your liver?
Proponents claim celery juice cleanses the liver, but there’s no clinical research showing it detoxifies or improves liver function. Celery does contain antioxidants, which may benefit liver health, but these are found in all vegetables.
When should you drink celery juice?
Most recommend drinking celery juice first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Waiting to eat breakfast for at least 15-30 minutes after. Some also suggest another glass mid-afternoon between meals. Avoid right before bedtime.
Does blending destroy nutrients in celery?
Blending celery into smoothies retains all the same nutrients as juicing. However, drinking blended celery can be hard on digestion due to the insoluble fiber. Juicing removes the fiber, making nutrients easier to absorb.
Can you freeze celery juice?
Yes, you can freeze celery juice in ice cube trays or jars. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Freezing can degrade some nutrients over time but provides longer storage than refrigerating.
The bottom line
Drinking celery juice occasionally before bed or at other times of day is likely safe for most people. However, claims of it providing miracle health benefits are exaggerated. As with any supplement, introduce celery juice slowly and be wary of potential side effects.
While juice is convenient, you can get the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from celery by eating it whole or blending it. Celery can be a healthy addition to a vegetable-rich diet, but don’t rely on it alone to transform your health.