7 Benefits of Onion That Will Surely Surprise You

Though all vegetables are important for health, certain kinds offer unique benefits. Onions are members of the Allium genus of flowering plants that also includes garlic, shallots, leeks and chives. These vegetables contain various vitamins, minerals and potent plant compounds that have been shown to promote health in many ways. These vegetables contain various vitamins, minerals and potent plant compounds that have been shown to promote health in many ways. In fact, the medicinal properties of onions have been recognized since ancient times, when they were used to treat ailments like headaches, heart disease and mouth sores. Here are 8 benefits of onions. 1. Help Control Blood Sugar: Eating onions may help control blood sugar, which is especially significant for people with diabetes or prediabetes.A study showed that diabetic rats fed food containing 5% onion extract for 28 days experienced decreased fasting blood sugar and had substantially lower body fat than the control group Specific compounds found in onions, such as quercetin and sulfur compounds, possess antidiabetic effects. 2.Skin and hair: As a good source of vitamin C, onions may support the building and maintenance of collagen. Collagen provides structure to skin and hair. 3.Blood pressure moderation: A study found that quercetin, a compound in onion skin, had links to lower blood pressure when the researchers extracted it and administered it as a supplement. However, the study did not examine the potential effects on blood pressure of eating onion as part of the diet rather than taking quercetin in supplement form. 4.Improves your bone density: Spring onions are loaded with high levels of vitamin C and vitamin K, both of which are essential for normal functioning of bones. Vitamin C helps in synthesis of collagen that makes your bones strong, while vitamin K plays a key role in maintaining bone density, 5. Protects against infection: Sulphur, a mineral present in spring onions inhibits fungal growth, while vitamin K helps in clotting of blood. They are also found to enhance the blood circulation and absorption of vitamin B1 by the body thereby reducing stress and tiredness. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects the body tissues from damage and inflammation. 6.Stronger Immunity: The defense mechanism of our body is our immune system and a healthy immune system will ensure we do not contract diseases that are caused due to bacteria, fungus, and viral infections. Nature has many natural ways to help prevent free radicals from affecting our body. Onions are one of these natural ways to build a stronger immunity. The vitamin C present in onions is the reason onions are believed to protect us from many diseases. 7. Pain Relief: I still remember being advised by my grandmother to rub a sliced onion on the affected area if stung by a blue bottle or a bee or when I scraped my knee. I do not know how that worked, but it did provide instant relief. Same goes for ear irritation, add a few drops of onion juice to a cotton pad and apply it on your ear to get rid of the pain and discomfort. The health benefits related to onions are quite impressive. These nutrient-packed vegetables contain powerful compounds that may decrease your risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Onions have antibacterial properties and promote digestive health, which may improve immune function. What’s more, they’re versatile and can be used to heighten the flavor of any savory dish. Adding more onions to your diet is an easy way to benefit your overall health.