What time should I drink celery juice?

Celery juice has become a popular health trend in recent years, with many claiming it provides a range of benefits. But when is the best time to drink celery juice to maximize those benefits? Here is a comprehensive guide to determining the optimal time for drinking celery juice.

Benefits of Drinking Celery Juice

Before diving into when to drink celery juice, let’s first examine why it’s beneficial in the first place:

• Hydration – Celery juice is mostly water, so it can help hydrate the body.
• Nutrients – Celery juice contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, potassium, folate and vitamin B2.
• Antioxidants – It provides antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and phytonutrients.
• Anti-inflammation – Compounds in celery juice may help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Digestion – It contains insoluble fiber which can aid digestion and promote regularity.
• Detoxification – Celery juice is thought to help flush toxins out of the body.
• Boosted immunity – It provides nutrients that can support immune system function.

With this range of potential benefits, optimizing when you drink celery juice is important to maximize its effects.

Factors That Influence Optimal Timing

There are a few key factors to consider when determining the best time of day to drink celery juice:

1. On an Empty Stomach

Drinking celery juice on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning, is often recommended. Here’s why:

• Aids digestion – Drinking it on an empty stomach allows the nutrients to be absorbed directly without competing with other foods or nutrients.
• Detoxification – The celery juice can start working right away to help flush toxins from your system first thing in the morning.
• Weight loss – Drinking celery juice before breakfast may aid weight loss efforts by boosting metabolism.

2. Hydration Status

Since celery juice is hydrating, timing when you are less hydrated or most in need of fluids is beneficial. First thing in the morning is ideal since you’re often dehydrated after sleeping.

3. Nutrient Needs

Think about when you need an extra nutrient boost during the day. Common times are:

• First thing in the morning – To get nutrients and start your day off right.
• Pre-workout – The nutrients can provide an energy boost.
• Post-workout – To help replenish nutrients lost during your workout.
• Mid-afternoon – If you have an energy slump, celery juice can provide a pick-me-up.

Optimal Times to Drink Celery Juice

Given the factors above, here are the top recommended times to drink celery juice:

Early Morning on an Empty Stomach

Drinking 16-24 oz of celery juice first thing in the morning on an empty stomach is the most popular recommendation from health experts. This optimizes digestion and detoxification.

Pre-Workout

Sipping around 8-16 oz of celery juice 30-60 minutes before your workout provides hydration and nutrients to boost energy and performance.

Post-Workout

Consuming 8-16 oz of celery juice within 30 minutes after your workout helps replenish fluid losses and provides nutrients for recovery.

Mid-Afternoon Pick-Me-Up

If you experience an energy slump in the afternoon, 8-16 oz of celery juice can give you a healthy boost.

How Long To Wait After Juicing

For maximum nutrient retention, it’s best to drink celery juice immediately after juicing. Here is an overview of how nutrient loss occurs over time:

Time After Juicing	Nutrient Loss
Immediately	Minimal
30 minutes	10%
1 hour	20%
2 hours	50%

As you can see, the nutrients start degrading quickly after juicing. For best results, try to drink your celery juice immediately after making it.

Can Celery Juice Be Consumed in the Evening?

While drinking celery juice in the morning and afternoon has the most benefits, you can still consume it in moderation in the evening. However, there are a few precautions:

• Avoid large quantities – Stick to around 8 oz in the evening.
• Allow time before bed – Finish at least 2 hours before laying down for best digestion.
• Be aware of diuretic effects – Consuming too close to bedtime can disrupt sleep.

Overall, small amounts in the evening are fine, just allow enough time for digestion before bed.

Should You Drink Celery Juice Every Day?

Here are some general guidelines around frequency:

• For therapeutic benefits – It’s often recommended to consume 16 oz daily for at least 3-4 weeks.
• For maintenance – After the initial period, 16 oz 3-5 days per week is often adequate.
• Listen to your body – Avoid drinking daily if you experience side effects like diarrhea.

Aim for daily use short-term, then tapering to a 3-5 days per week maintenance schedule for longer term. Be aware of potential side effects and adjust frequency accordingly.

Potential Side Effects

Celery juice is safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts. However, drinking large amounts can cause issues like:

• Diarrhea
• Bloating and gas
• Allergic reactions – Celery allergies are possible.
• Dangerously low sodium – Large amounts can deplete sodium levels.
• Kidney problems – Oxalates in celery can accumulate.

Start with small amounts like 8 oz to assess tolerance. Avoid excessive consumption and be cautious if you have kidney issues or sodium deficiencies.

How To Make Celery Juice

Here is a simple process for making celery juice at home:

1. Wash and trim 1-2 bunches of celery, cutting off leaves and base.
2. Run celery through a juicer according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Collect the juice in a glass. Consume immediately for best nutrient retention.
4. Optionally, can store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
5. Shake or stir before drinking if juice separates after sitting.

Tips for the best tasting juice:

• Use fresh, crisp celery.
• Remove any bruised or discolored stalks.
• Run through juicer at low speeds for less foam.
• Drink through a straw to avoid foam.
• Add a squeeze of lemon to help mellow the flavor.

Conclusion

Drinking celery juice provides many promising health benefits. To maximize results, opt for drinking 16-24 oz on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. It can also be beneficial before a workout, after a workout, or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Moderate amounts in the evening are fine too but allow 2 hours before bed for digestion. Drink daily for at least 3-4 weeks for therapeutic effects, then consider a maintenance schedule of 3-5 days per week. Be mindful of potential side effects and adjust frequency accordingly. Making fresh juice at home is simple and allows you to control ingredients. With optimal timing and preparation, celery juice can be a healthy and energizing addition to your routine.