Health benefits of onions

Onions are a nutritious food, noted for their many outstanding health benefits.

1. Cancer prevention

Onions contain two important biological agents, selenium and quercetin. Selenium helps strengthen the immune system and helps inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Quercetin, a powerful antioxidant, has the ability to weaken and block the source of nutrients that feed cancer cells.

Many studies show that regular onion consumption reduces the risk of stomach cancer by 25% and reduces mortality by 30%.

2. Supports the digestive system, improves constipation

The sulfur component in onions, when entering the body, will be converted into hydrogen sulfide, which stimulates intestinal motility and supports the elimination process. In addition, fiber and oligosaccharides help nourish beneficial bacteria, create a healthy intestinal environment, and significantly improve constipation.

3. Reduce blood sugar

Onions contain an active ingredient similar to tolbutamide - a diabetes drug, which helps increase the ability of cells to use glucose. In particular, purple onions are highly appreciated in supporting blood sugar regulation. However, this is a supportive food, not a substitute for treatment drugs. The appropriate dosage is about 25-50g per day.

4. Prevent osteoporosis

Onions contain phytoestrogen - a form of plant estrogen, which plays a role in balancing hormones and slowing bone loss, thereby helping to protect and maintain bone and joint health.

5. Support lowering blood pressure

The compounds in onions have the ability to prevent blood clots and improve blood circulation, thereby helping to stabilize blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular complications. This is an ideal food choice for people with chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

However, when using onions, it is important to pay attention to interactions with other foods to avoid causing digestive discomfort or affecting nutrient absorption.

Notes when combining onions with other foods

1. Onions and kelp should not be eaten together

Kelp is a food source rich in iodine and calcium, while onions contain oxalic acid. When these two foods are combined, they can create compounds that cause kidney stones or gallstones.

Therefore, people with a history of stones or sensitive stomachs should be careful when using them at the same time. If unsure, consult your doctor before combining these foods.

2. Onions and honey should not be eaten together

Although honey is very nutritious, when eaten with onions, some compounds in onions can react with enzymes and acids in honey, creating substances that are harmful to the body.

This combination can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and in severe cases, eye damage. To avoid unwanted effects, leave a few hours between eating these foods. People with sensitive stomachs should be extra careful.

Tips for using onions

Onions contain a lot of natural fiber, but for some people, it can cause stomach discomfort due to fermentation and gas production. Those who are prone to this problem should limit their onion intake or eat it in small amounts. If you cannot stand the spicy taste of onions, it is best to avoid eating them.

To reduce the burning sensation when cutting onions, you can try soaking the onions in water before cutting or cutting them under running water to dissolve the irritating gases. Another option is to use frozen onions or wear safety glasses when cutting onions to avoid tears.