Drinking celery juice for seven days is a popular ritual often used to “reset” the digestive system. While some claims about it are exaggerated, there is no denying that this humble vegetable is a powerhouse of hydration and specific plant compounds that can make a noticeable difference in a single week.
Here is what typically happens to your body during a 7-day celery juice streak, along with the “doctor’s perspective” on why it works.
- Days 1–3: The Digestive Flush. Celery is rich in sodium cluster salts. You may notice increased bowel movements or slight bloating initially as the juice stimulates hydrochloric acid in the stomach, helping to break down old undigested proteins.
- Days 4–5: Reduced Inflammation. By mid-week, the apigenin and luteolin (two potent antioxidants in celery) begin to lower systemic inflammation. Many people report that “puffiness” in the face and hands begins to subside.
- Days 6–7: Skin and Energy Clarity. Because celery juice is roughly 95% structured water and loaded with electrolytes, your cells become deeply hydrated. This often results in a “natural glow” and a steady stream of energy without the caffeine crash.+1
The 3-Ingredient Pure Celery Juice
To get the medicinal benefits, it is best to drink this on an empty stomach, about 15–30 minutes before breakfast.
- 1 Large Bunch of Organic Celery: Look for bright green, crisp stalks.
- 1/2 Fresh Lemon: The acidity helps stabilize the Vitamin C and cuts the salty taste.
- A Small Splash of Filtered Water: Only if using a blender instead of a juicer.
Instructions
- Wash Thoroughly: Celery is often high on the “pesticide” list, so scrub each stalk individually under cold running water.
- Juice or Blend: * If using a juicer: Simply run the stalks through.
- If using a blender: Roughly chop the celery, add a tiny bit of water, and blend until liquified.
- Strain (Crucial Step): Use a nut milk bag or a fine-mesh sieve to remove all the fiber. While fiber is usually good, the goal here is to allow the nutrients to reach your bloodstream instantly without the “work” of digestion.
- Add Lemon: Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir.
- Drink Immediately: The enzymes in celery juice oxidize quickly; it is most potent within 20 minutes of juicing.
A Thoughtful Caution
While celery juice is a wonderful tonic, we must apply the same care we discussed with ginger and turmeric:
- Blood Pressure: Celery is naturally high in sodium. While these are “good” salts, if you are on a strict low-sodium diet for kidney or heart issues, consult your doctor.
- Photosensitivity: Celery contains psoralens, which can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. If you are drinking large amounts, be extra diligent with sunscreen during your 7-day streak.
- Blood Thinners: Like the other roots we’ve discussed, celery contains Vitamin K, which can interfere with blood-thinning medications if consumed in massive, concentrated quantities.
A Pro-Tip: Don’t throw away the celery leaves! They contain the highest concentration of Vitamin C and potassium. Include them in your juice for an extra nutritional punch.
