Why does celery juice make you feel bloated?

Celery juice has become an incredibly popular health drink in recent years. Advocates claim it can help with a range of issues from inflammation to digestive problems. However, some people find that drinking celery juice, especially on an empty stomach, can leave them feeling bloated and uncomfortable.

What is Celery Juice?

Celery juice is made by pressing or juicing celery stalks. It has become famous largely thanks to the “Medical Medium” Anthony William, who recommends drinking 16 ounces of straight celery juice every morning on an empty stomach.

According to William, celery juice contains undiscovered cluster salts that have powerful healing properties. He claims it can help with all kinds of chronic illnesses, from autoimmune diseases to digestive issues.

However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these health claims. Celery juice is low in calories and rich in certain vitamins and minerals. But its effects on inflammation, digestion, and other health issues require more research.

Why Might Celery Juice Cause Bloating?

There are a few potential reasons why celery juice may lead to bloating, gas, and discomfort:

It’s high in insoluble fiber

Celery is rich in insoluble fiber, which means it does not break down during digestion. Insoluble fiber provides bulk and helps food move through the digestive tract. However, too much insoluble fiber at once can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea.

Juicing celery removes the plant’s soluble fiber, which helps offset some of insoluble fiber’s effects. However, celery juice still contains significant amounts of insoluble fiber without this beneficial soluble fiber content.

It contains natural plant compounds

Celery contains a variety of plant compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and phthalides, some of which may cause digestive issues. For example, apigenin is a flavonoid found in celery that is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. However, some research suggests apigenin could also relax the stomach and intestine, potentially leading to bloating.

You’re drinking too much

Moderation is key when drinking celery juice, as too much can overwhelm the digestive system. The Medical Medium recommends drinking 16 ounces on an empty stomach each morning, which may be more than some people can tolerate.

Start with a small 4-8 ounce serving and see how your body reacts before increasing the amount.

You have an underlying condition

For some people, celery juice doesn’t cause problems. If you experience significant bloating, it may be a sign of an underlying digestive health issue, like:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Fructose malabsorption
• Gastroparesis
• Peptic ulcers

If you have an undiagnosed digestive condition, the insoluble fiber, sugars, and compounds in celery juice could exacerbate your symptoms.

Tips to Prevent Celery Juice Bloating

Here are some tips to help prevent gas, bloating, and other digestive issues from celery juice:

Drink it in moderation

Stick to a small serving of 4-8 ounces, especially at first. Drink larger amounts slowly over the course of the day, rather than all at once.

Combine it with other juices

Blend celery juice with cucumber, apple, carrot, or other juices that contain soluble fiber. This helps balance out the insoluble fiber in celery juice.

Slowly acclimate

If celery juice causes issues, start with a few ounces per day and slowly increase the amount over a week or two. This allows your digestive system time to adjust.

Take probiotics

Probiotic supplements can help support digestion and minimize gas and bloating. Take probiotics consistently, especially when first starting to drink celery juice.

Avoid drinking it on an empty stomach

Having celery juice by itself first thing in the morning may be too harsh for some people. Try drinking it after eating breakfast instead.

Walk after drinking it

Going for a walk after having celery juice can help move things along the digestive tract and prevent gas from building up.

Avoid if you have a digestive disorder

If you have been diagnosed with a condition like IBS, SIBO, fructose malabsorption, or peptic ulcers, celery juice may exacerbate your symptoms. Speak to your healthcare provider before trying it.

Other Potential Side Effects

In addition to bloating and gas, celery juice may have other side effects to be aware of:

Allergic reactions

Celery allergies, while uncommon, do exist. Celery juice has the potential to trigger reactions like itching, hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis in those with an allergy.

Diarrhea

Too much insoluble fiber from celery can cause loose, watery stools. Start with a small amount of juice and increase slowly to prevent diarrhea.

Kidney problems

Celery contains oxalate, which can accumulate in the kidneys and cause kidney stones or other issues in sensitive individuals. Those with a history of kidney problems should exercise caution with high oxalate foods.

Headaches

Celery contains tyramine, an amino acid that has been linked to headaches in some people. It may also trigger headaches in those with an intolerance to amines.

Photosensitivity

Celery, like many plants, contains psoralens – compounds that can make the skin more sensitive to UV light. This may increase the risk of sunburn.

Who Should Avoid Celery Juice?

Certain people may want to avoid celery juice entirely or proceed with caution, including:

• Those with a celery allergy
• People with irritable bowel syndrome or digestive disorders
• Anyone prone to kidney stones or with kidney disease
• Individuals who experience migraines triggered by amines
• People taking blood thinners, as celery may increase bleeding risk

Pregnant women may also want to exercise caution, as celery’s safety during pregnancy has not been established.

The Bottom Line

Celery juice is safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, too much insoluble fiber at once can overwhelm the digestive tract and lead to unpleasant symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Start with a small amount of juice, avoid drinking it on an empty stomach, and increase your intake slowly. Pay attention to your body’s signals. If celery juice causes significant digestive distress, consider avoiding it altogether and speak with your healthcare provider.

While celery juice is not a miracle cure, it can be included as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. But as with any supplement or food trend, moderation and attention to individual tolerance are key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does celery juice cause diarrhea?

Celery juice contains insoluble fiber, which helps move contents through the digestive tract. Too much insoluble fiber can cause loose, watery stools. Start with a small amount of juice and increase slowly to prevent diarrhea.

Is it OK to drink celery juice everyday?

Drinking 4-8 ounces of celery juice daily is likely safe for most healthy people. However, listen to your body’s signals. Reduce the amount or avoid celery juice if it causes significant digestive issues.

Should you drink celery juice on an empty stomach?

Drinking celery juice first thing in the morning may be too harsh for some people. Try having it after breakfast instead. The fiber and compounds may be better tolerated alongside food.

What are the side effects of celery juice?

Potential side effects of celery juice include bloating, gas, diarrhea, allergic reactions, headaches, and kidney problems in susceptible individuals. Start with a small amount and discontinue use if any worrisome reactions occur.

Is celery juice good for weight loss?

Celery juice is very low in calories, so it can help reduce overall calorie intake when replacing higher calorie beverages. However, celery juice alone is unlikely to lead to significant weight loss. Focus on overall healthy eating and exercise habits.

The Takeaway

Celery juice is a trendy beverage packed with vitamins and antioxidants. When consumed in moderation, it can provide benefits as part of an overall healthy diet. However, too much celery juice may cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea due to its insoluble fiber content. Start with a small amount of juice and watch for body signals to prevent adverse reactions.