The Health Benefits Of Onion
Being rich in vitamins A and C, onion is ideal for relieving respiratory diseases. Thanks to its sulfur-rich compounds, it has the ability to reduce the symptoms of bronchitis, colds and colds.
Onion ( Allium cepa ) is one of the species of Allium most used not only for culinary preparations, but also for medicinal purposes. Onions have long been valued for having a number of health benefits, including antiplatelet and antithrombotic properties.
Surely you already know some of the properties and benefits of onion. It is a food that can prevent and support the treatment of common diseases. If you want to know more, read on to learn about the properties attributed to onion.
The onion, an ally for health
You must not forget that the best way to stay healthy is to follow a balanced diet and lead a healthy lifestyle. Food or natural remedies, although their properties are proven, should never be used as an alternative to medical treatment. Likewise, any drastic change in diet should be consulted with a nutritionist.
That said, onion is much more than an ingredient in the kitchen, although it is commonly used in all kinds of dishes. Since ancient times, its infinity of properties has been used in very different ways and for ailments of all kinds.
This vegetable is rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as calcium, magnesium or iron. It has bactericidal properties and stimulates liver and gallbladder function. But to take better advantage of all these properties, it is better to eat it raw.
Additionally, the Allium genus, especially garlic and onion, is an important source of dietary phytochemicals with proven antioxidant properties.
They are rich in organosulfuric compounds, quercetin, flavonoids, saponins and others, which can function as cardiovascular and cardiac preventive, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, neuroprotective and immunological.
However, as we have mentioned, it should not be used as an alternative to the treatment of any condition. On the other hand, although consumed in moderate quantities and within a balanced diet, onion does not have any contraindication, it should not be abused.
What are the benefits of onion?
We already know some of its compounds and properties. Let us now see the benefits for our health that are attributed to the onion.
Improves circulation
According to studies, as it has a high degree of quercetin, it promotes blood circulation. On the other hand, although the components present in Allium species have been reported as anticoagulants, there is no conclusive evidence on the antithrombotic effect of onion.
Improves symptoms of anemia
Although there is really no scientific evidence to support it, it is believed that the onion has antianemic properties, since it provides us with phosphorus, iron, and vitamin E, elements that help replace blood loss and regenerate red blood cells.
Helps relieve colds
Being rich in vitamins A and C, onion is ideal for relieving respiratory diseases. Thanks to its sulfur-rich compounds, it has the ability to reduce the symptoms of bronchitis, colds and colds.
Due to its sulfur components, onion is a good anti-asthmatic and anti-inflammatory and has bactericidal properties. Therefore, one of the most used traditional remedies in infectious processes of the respiratory system.
Helps control hypertension
Quercetin is a polyphenolic flavonoid. Common sources in the diet are apples, onions, berries, and red wine. Some studies have found a relationship between dietary quercetin intake and cardiovascular disease, as well as a reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive people.
Prevents diseases of the nervous system
Organosulfur compounds, such as allium and allicin, are present in large amounts in garlic and onion, and have been shown to be neuroprotective. In addition to their antioxidant activities, allyl-containing sulfides can activate stress response pathways, resulting in an increase in neuroprotective proteins.
Helps lose weight and control weight
Onion is perfect to include in the diet, either to lose weight or for other health issues. Given its low caloric value and high fiber content, it is ideal in weight loss diets.
In addition, some studies suggest that onion has properties that act against obesity, as they improved the lipid profile in rats fed a high-fat diet.
It is an antioxidant
The onion has antioxidant powers because it contains vitamins A and C, sulfur and flavonoids, such as quercetin and anthocyanin. Therefore, some research suggests that it helps fight cellular aging and degenerative diseases.
It is antiseptic
On the other hand, onion can act as a natural antiseptic. In this study, the red onion extract showed a potential antimicrobial activity, while the yellow onion showed a moderate effect and the white one a very diminished or negligible effect.
You have already been able to verify it, there are many benefits of onion. Do not hesitate to include it in your diet, raw in salads or as an ingredient in meals.
