Onions are a popular ingredient in cooking, a real treasure trove of useful substances that bring the body a lot of positive effects. This affordable vegetable has been used for centuries in folk medicine due to its unique properties. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of onions and why you should include them in your diet.
A rich source of vitamins and minerals
Onions are rich in a number of valuable nutrients, including vitamins C, B6 and B9 (folic acid), as well as minerals: potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. It provides these benefits to the human body:
- Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight infections.
- Potassium helps normalize blood pressure and keeps the heart functioning.
- Folic acid is important for the health of the nervous system and is especially useful for pregnant women.
Benefits of onions for immunity
Onions contain flavonoids and phytoncides, natural substances that have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Consumption of raw onions helps to prevent colds and flu, as well as accelerate recovery at the first symptoms of the disease. Those who ate onions during the pandemic were less likely to get sick. The phytoncides released by onions destroy pathogens, thereby reducing the risk of infection. This is why onions are often used in home remedies for runny noses and coughs. Pirates always took onions with them on the ship to avoid scurvy.
Benefits for the heart
Onions are rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, which help lower cholesterol levels. By eating onions, the formation of blood clots is prevented. This helps in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases including heart attacks and strokes. Due to its high sulfur content, onions help thin the blood, improving circulation. Your heart will thank you.
Blood sugar regulation
Studies show that substances found in onions (such as sulfur compounds and chromium) can help regulate blood glucose levels. This makes it a beneficial food for people with or at risk for any type of diabetes.
Scientists highlight additional benefits of onions for the body:
- Onions are rich in prebiotics — substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial microflora in the intestines. Healthy microflora improves digestion, prevents abdominal bloating and increases nutrient absorption.
- Quercetin and other antioxidants found in onions have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce inflammation in joints, ligaments and soft tissues, which is especially helpful for arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Onions help manage acne and pigmentation, improving overall skin health.
- The antioxidants in onions help reduce inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which helps prevent ulcers and gastritis. Due to its high content of antioxidants such as quercetin and selenium, onions protect cells from free radical damage. This slows down the aging process. who eats onions, lives longer.
- Onion juice is used in cosmetology to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. Thanks to sulfur-containing compounds, onion juice stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, improving the nutrition of hair follicles. If you want healthy hair, eat more onions.
Here are some interesting facts and benefits of onions:
- Age. Onions have been cultivated for over 7,000 years! It was cultivated in the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China.
- Sacred Vegetable. In ancient Egypt, the onion was considered a sacred symbol of eternal life because of its round shape and concentric layers. It was depicted on tomb walls and placed in the tombs of pharaohs.
- Versatility of color. Onions are not only white or yellow, but also red, purple, pink and even green. Color and taste depend on the variety and growing conditions.
- Onion tears. Onions cause tears because of a substance called allicinase. When cut, it turns into volatile sulfur compounds that irritate the eyes.
- Onions as medicine. Since ancient times, onions have been used to treat wounds, colds and other ailments due to their antibacterial properties. It also improves blood circulation and lowers blood sugar levels.
- Popularity in the world. Onions are one of the most consumed vegetables on the planet. It is grown in more than 175 countries, with China, India and the United States being the leading producers.
- Historical use in the military. Roman soldiers believed that onions gave strength and endurance. They often ate it before battle.
- Onion festivals. Many countries have festivals dedicated to onions. For example, in Catalonia, Spain, there is a festival called Calcotada, where a special kind of onion is grilled and eaten.
- Long-term storage. Onions are the perfect vegetable for long term storage. If kept in a cool, dark and well-ventilated place, they can stay fresh for months.
- Symbol in culture. In some cultures, onions symbolize health, strength and protection from evil spirits. For example, in Greece, it was hung over the front door to protect the house.
How to consume onions?
To maximize the benefits, it is recommended to eat onions raw — so more active substances are preserved. However, even when cooked, they retain some of their beneficial properties:
- Add onions to salads, soups, side dishes and sauces.
- Drink onion juice with honey at the first signs of a cold.
- Use onion decoction to strengthen immunity and improve skin condition.
Contraindications
Despite the many useful properties, onions have contraindications:
- GI diseases in the acute stage (gastritis, ulcer).
- Tendency to allergic reactions.
- Diseases of the kidneys or liver.
If you ignore these warnings, onions can cause harm rather than benefit. Before regularly consuming onions in large quantities, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The strong odor of onions should not be overlooked. If you plan to kiss or socialize with friends, it is better not to eat onions.
Onions are a versatile product that not only enriches dishes with flavor, but also brings significant health benefits. It strengthens the immune system, supports heart function, improves digestion and protects against inflammation. Including this vegetable in your daily menu will help your body work smoothly and efficiently.
To learn about the benefits of other products, go to the Benefits food page.