Amazing Benefits of Onions

Sharon Moore October 16, 2014

Onions may not be your favourite vegetable but they are really worth adding to your diet. If you can’t eat them as they are, you can always incorporate onions in so many dishes, from sandwiches to soups, stir-fries, steaks, etc.

So the next time you cry peeling those onions, just think about the following health benefits you could get.

Lower Cholesterol

Studies by Chinese University of Hong Kong showed that onions can help reduce the levels of bad cholesterol. Just half of raw onion may already increase good HDL cholesterol by 30%. Aside from onions, chives, garlic, and shallots also provide the same benefit.

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant (considered as the ‘Mother of Antioxidants’) which has been shown to help ward off cancer, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Stabilised Blood Sugar Level

Onions contain allyl propyl disulphide (oil of onion). This oil acts in a way similar to how insulin helps balance blood sugar levels.

Quercetin Sources

Quercetin is another antioxidant that is found in apples. Fortunately, you can get it too from onions. This essential nutrient has proven benefits for many health conditions, such as bronchitis, hay fever, diabetes, asthma and blood clot.

Anticancer Properties

Studies published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute show that regular consumption of the allium family type of vegetable (shallots, garlic, and onions) may help to reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. Similar studies show that stomach and breast cancer rates may also be cut by eating onions.

Brain Health

Studies show that the consumption of onions can help when the brain is damaged by a stroke or a clot. It seems to play an important role in promoting mental health.

Protection from Dark Spots (melasma)

Mixing onion juice (obtained by chopping and then squeezing) with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar can remove dark spots on the skin, when applied twice a day. Melasma or hyperpigmentation is often caused by sun, contraceptives, or pregnancy. It is sometimes referred to as a ‘pregnancy mask.’ Both onions and the cider vinegar help to balance the pH of the skin.

Bee Sting Relief

Got bitten by a honeybee? Apply onion juice on the area for immediate relief from the pain and burning sensation.

Getting the Most from Onions

There are many healthy ways to eat onions. Onions can be eaten on their own steamed, boiled or roasted. Sautéed chopped onions can be added to almost any vegetable dish to enhance its nutritional content and taste. Chop 1 red onion, 2 medium tomatoes, 2 avocados and 1 jalapeno and combine together for an all-in-one guacamole salsa dip. Place chunks of onion or small pearl onions on a skewer, either alone or with other vegetables, coat lightly with olive oil, and grill for approximately 10 minutes.

How about you? What’s your favourite way to enjoy onions? Do share a comment below.