Celery is distinguished by its presence phthalides, i.e. bioactive organic compounds. Their properties relax the smooth muscles of blood vessels, leading to their natural dilation, improving blood flow and reducing the load on the entire cardiovascular system.
The latest meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials from 2025, conducted by scientific teams from the Universities of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Chengdu and Nanjing, proved that celery-based preparations significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults with hypertension. The authors also noted improvement in metabolic parameters, including a decrease in fasting glucose and triglycerides. The results were published in the work “Effects of celery (Apium graveolens) on blood pressure, glycemic and lipid profile in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials” in 2025.
However, the importance of celery does not end with phthalides. Vegetable also provides potassium – an element that regulates water and electrolyte balance and supports the excretion of excess sodium. Therefore, it has a direct impact on maintaining correct pressure values. Present in celery polyphenols, including apigenin, have antioxidant propertiesprotect the walls of blood vessels against oxidative stress and help maintain their elasticity, slowing down the inflammatory processes accompanying cardiovascular diseases.
Kefir plays a more subtle but no less important role in this duo. A systematic review of clinical trials published in 2025 by scientists from the National Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology at the Shahid Beheshti Medical University in Tehran indicates that regular, long-term consumption of kefir is associated with a decrease in the concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP) – a marker of chronic inflammationwhich plays an important role in the pathogenesis of hypertension.
In 2026, a broad review of the properties of kefir will be published in Food Production, Processing and Nutrition in addition drew attention to its impact on the intestinal microbiome and metabolic processeswhich indirectly support the health of the cardiovascular system.
It is in this synergy that the strength of this combination lies. Celery provides substances with a direct, documented effect on blood pressure regulation, while kefir supports the body’s metabolic environment, soothes inflammatory processes and strengthens the functioning of the gut-heart axis.
Kefir and celery drink provides the body with ingredients that support electrolyte balance and metabolic processes. This is a simple way to introduce portions of vegetables and fermented dairy products into your diet in a form that works both in the morning and in the evening.
Ingredients:
- 200-250 ml kefir (1-2.5% fat),
- 1-2 fresh celery stalks (you can also use a teaspoon of ground celery root).
Preparation:
- Wash the celery stalks and chop them finely.
- Put the celery in the blender with the kefir.
- Blend until smooth.
- Drink immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
How to drink?
- Water: on an empty stomach to start the day with a light, nutritious drink.
- In the evening: about an hour before bedtime, when the body enters the calm down phase.
If you prefer a lighter consistency, you can juice the celery and combine it with kefir – the drink will be more runny, with a fresher, “smoother” flavor profile.
For a tip: if the flavor seems too intense, add a few leaves of fresh mint or a thin slice of lemon. This will not disturb the sodium and potassium ratio, and the drink will gain a more pleasant aroma and a more refreshing character.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, PubMed
