Scientists believe celery has benefits for your digestive tract and cardiovascular system, and the seeds have been used as a natural pain reliever. One of the most advantageous compounds in celery is apigenin, a molecule that is gaining interest for possible cancer-fighting properties, as previously noted. Celeriac is a root vegetable related to celery. Here Mary Jane Brown, PhD, RD, HealthLine.com, reflects on health benefits of celeriac:

“Celeriac is a root vegetable closely related to celery, parsley and parsnips.

Its scientific name is Apium graveolens var. rapaceum, and it’s also known as turnip-rooted celery, knob celery or celery root.

It originated in the Mediterranean and belongs to the same plant family as carrots.

Celeriac is well known for its strange appearance. It looks similar to a misshapen turnip and is off-white with a rough, knobby surface covered in tiny rootlets. Its smooth, white flesh is similar to a potato.

The leaves and stalk of the plant grow above ground and resemble celery. It typically measures about 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) in diameter and weighs around 1–2 pounds (450–900 grams).

Celeriac is popular in Eastern and Northern European regions as a winter root vegetable and commonly used in salads, soups, casseroles and stews. Celeriac remoulade is a popular French dish, similar to coleslaw.

Its taste resembles that of the upper part of the celery stem, and it can be eaten raw or cooked.

Raw celeriac has a crunchy texture, making it a perfect addition to salads and coleslaws. When cooked, it is slightly sweeter and works well mashed, baked, roasted or boiled.

Though its peak season is September to April, celeriac is generally available year-round.

Potential health benefits

Due to its good supply of certain nutrients and antioxidants, celeriac may offer a variety of health benefits.

Packed with antioxidants

Celeriac is packed with antioxidants, which are anti-inflammatory — they work by fighting against harmful free radicals, thus protecting healthy cells from damage.

In doing so, they may protect against many conditions, such as heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. They may even offer anti-aging effects (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source).

Celeriac — especially raw — is also a good source of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and may strengthen your immune system (5Trusted Source).

May benefit heart health

Celeriac is high in potassium and vitamin K, which are important for heart health.”

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Read More … Article Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/celeriac