Though all veggies are beneficial to one's health, many types have distinct advantages. Garlic, shallots, leeks, and chives are all part of the Allium genus of flowering plants, containing onions. These veggies are high in vitamins, minerals, and plant chemicals that have been demonstrated to improve health in various ways. Indeed, onions' medicinal benefits have been known since ancient times, when they were used to treat headaches, heart illness, and mouth ulcers.
Here are the impressive health benefits of onions:
1. Vitamin C
Nutrients are found in a wide range of foods. Vitamin C aids in the healing and formation of blood vessels and other bodily parts. It also works as an antioxidant to combat free radicals. Those are molecules produced by your body that can cause damage. Experts recommend 90 mg of vitamin C each day. That is the Daily Value or the amount of a nutrient you should consume daily. The Daily Value for an average-sized onion ranges from 9% to 18%.
2. Antioxidants
Quercetin is a flavonoid or antioxidant substance found in all onions. Quercetin has anti-inflammatory qualities, aids in the production of vitamin E, and protects the body from various cancers. Antioxidants are found in all onions, but red and yellow onions have more than white onions.
3. Fiber
Onions contain both dietary and prebiotic fiber. One cup contains 12% of the 21-38 grams daily requirement. Fiber keeps you fuller for longer and keeps your bowel movements regular. And you're less likely to consume as much when you're full. As a result, your chances of becoming obese are reduced. Onions contain prebiotic fiber, which feeds your gut flora (probiotics) and allows them to thrive.
4. Vitamin B6
One medium onion provides about 8% of your daily required value. Vitamin B6 aids in the formation of red blood cells in the body. It also helps women with PMS and morning sickness by breaking down protein.
5. Raw Onion
If you consume onions raw, you'll reap the maximum benefits. Toss them in salads, omelets, or guacamole, diced. Alternatively, slice them and put them on a sandwich. To soften onions without losing too much of the good stuff, softly sauté them. Cooked onions aren't unhealthy; they don't have as many nutrients as raw onions.
6. Pickled Red Onion
Slice a red onion and combine it with a touch of salt and red wine vinegar. Allow for 15 minutes of resting time, tossing every 5 minutes to coat. It adds texture and flavour to hot dogs, burgers, salads, and tacos.
7. Controls Blood Sugar
Onions may aid in blood sugar regulation, which is particularly important for diabetes or prediabetes. In a study of 42 persons with type 2 diabetes, eating 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of fresh red onion for four hours lowered fasting blood sugar levels by roughly 40 mg/dl (23Trusted Source).
In addition, several animal studies have demonstrated that eating onions can help with blood sugar regulation. Diabetic rats fed a diet with 5% onion extract for 28 days had lower fasting blood sugar and much less body fat than the control group (24Trusted Source). Onions contain anti-diabetic properties, such as quercetin and sulphur compounds.
For example, quercetin has been shown to interact with cells in the small intestine, pancreas, skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and liver to regulate blood sugar levels throughout the body.
Onions provide a long list of health benefits. These nutrient-dense vegetables contain potent chemicals that may lower your risk of heart disease and cancer. Onions have antimicrobial characteristics and can help with digestion, which can help with immune function. They're also adaptable, as they can be utilized to enhance the flavour of any savoury food. Increasing your onion consumption is a simple method to improve your overall health.