It also reduces lung inflammation and symptoms associated with asthma.


Protects the Heart

Consumption of fresh onion prevents the formation of blood clots and blockage in the arteries. It further helps in the management of diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure and high cholesterol and triglyceride levels that are risk factors for heart disease. Thus, daily consumption of onion can confer protection against gastric ulcers.


Boosts Immunity

Onion plays a contributory role in enhancing overall immune function. Let's throw some light at the advantages of eating onions.


Lowers High Blood Glucose Levels

Onions contain active compounds that help in lowering high blood glucose levels. These health benefits of onions are attributed to the presence of two active compounds - cysteine and allyl propyl disulfide (APDS).


Health Benefits of Onions

Onions have a wide range of beneficial effects on the body, especially when eaten raw. APDS, a healthy compound present in onion binds the toxic substances present in the liver and increases its excretion. It is native to Southwest Asia and it belongs to the family "Liliaceae" (scientific name- Allium cepa). They are a versatile ingredient that is often used in many dishes and it is generally accepted by almost all the different cultures and traditions. It is broadly used in the food industry for its aromatic and nutritional properties. Furthermore, onions boost immunity by protecting the body against various infections such as viral, fungal, bacterial and parasitic. A study published in 2010 showed that adding 100 grams of raw onion to the diet of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus reduced the fasting blood glucose levels by 40 mg/dl.


Reduces High Cholesterol Levels

Cysteine, a healthy compound present in onion possesses lipid lowering action. Onion contains approximately 25 active healthy compounds and anti-microbial properties that make it a potent immune system booster. These antioxidants scavenge the free radicals and thus prevent episodes of seizures. Onion is a good source of selenium that protects brain cells and prevents seizures and epilepsy.


Protects Against Gastric Ulcers

Consumption of onion protects the inner lining of the stomach and prevents onset of gastric ulcers.

Furthermore, it increases the production of mucus that coats the inner lining of the stomach and prevents the damage caused by gastric ulcers. Onion further possesses "bronchodilator properties", that is, it makes breathing easier by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and helps in widening the airways. It further reduces the activity of enzymes that lead to synthesis of fatty acids and triglycerides. Onion consumption stimulates the release of insulin, improves overall insulin action and enhances the uptake of glucose by cells which is further used as a source of energy rather than increasing the blood glucose levels. Onions contain various vitamins and minerals in small amounts such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, selenium and sodium. The antioxidants present in onions scavenge free radicals and improve liver health. Onion is a great source of antioxidants. The low-sodium content of onion makes its consumption suitable for individuals with high blood pressure. The main cause for epileptic seizures is increased load of free radicals. Bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses are sensitive to "Allicin", a compound present in onions. They are extensively used in the preparation of savory dishes.

Since hundreds of years onions have been used for various medicinal purposes such as lowering high blood pressure, blood glucose levels and cholesterol levels and as an anti-septic. Studies have further unraveled that including onion in daily diet stimulates the immune system by reducing the symptoms associated with diabetes mellitus, asthma, stomach and brain cancer, heart diseases and osteoporosis. Onions are mainly found in temperate regions. Thus, it can contribute good flavor and taste to dishes without increasing the overall caloric content. Thus, it prevents the damage caused by free radicals. Health Benefits of Onion


Introduction to Onion


Onion is a common household vegetable that is cultivated widely all throughout the world. Lack of selenium can lead to brain disorder such as epilepsy and may even lead to brain cell death. Flavonols, quercetin and kaempferol are some compounds present in onion that possess anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties that fight against bacterial growth.


Protects Against Liver Damage

Free radicals attack the liver and cause liver injury. Consumption of onion is associated with lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Onions also help in lowering total cholesterol levels by increasing the excretion of bile acids from the body. Selenium, a trace element helps in maintaining good health of the brain cells. Because asthma is an inflammatory condition, the anti-inflammatory properties of onion can help in the management of asthma and its symptoms. Therefore, these medicinal properties of onion stimulate the immune system and keep diseases and disorders at bay.


Anti-Asthmatic Agent

Onions contain "quercetin", a compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have revealed that onion and onion juice kill the bacteria and further prevent its growth and spread. Excess cholesterol from the body is excreted in bile acids, hence removal of bile acids is a good way to lower cholesterol levels. Thus, onions help in the detoxification process of the liver and further helps to maintain normal and healthy liver structure and function.


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