Eat That Onion: Health Benefits of Onions

Onions Do More Than Make You Cry! ( A Brief Insight into Recently Discovered Health Benefits).
Onions have been used for ages as an ingredient in various dishes in mmany cultures. They can be eaten raw, cooked, fried, dried or roasted and are commonly used as a flavoring or seasoning agent in many dishes.
The WHO have recently validated the use of onions in treating poor appetite and preventing atherosclerosis. A brief look at other health benefits include:

1.) Onions fight cancer: they are rich in sulfides which provide protection against tumor growth.

2.) Cardiovascular improvement: Regular consumption of Onions have been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.This is attributed to the sulfur compounds, chromium and vitamin B6 which prevent heart diseases bt lowering homocystein levels.

3.) Reduction of blood sugar levels: Onions contain Allyl Propyl Disulfide that helps reduce glucose levels by increasing insulin levels.

4.) Good for the skin: Onions help in stimulating the circulation of blood in the mucous membrane. It can be applied as poultice to boils, bruises, wounds e.t.c. Onion juice mixed with honey is about the best home made remedy to acne.

5.) Stimulates hair growth: Sulphur in Onions is an essential nutriient for hair growth.

6.) Prevents blood clot: Onions is considered a natural anti-clotting agent because of the high sulphur content.

7.) Treats Urinary disorders: Onions have diuretic properties, which is useful in treating urinary disorders. For those suffering from burning sensation during urination, drink water boiled woth 6-7grams of onions for relief.

8.) Remedy for cold and Flu: The WHO have recognised onions for its ability to help relieve flu symptoms such as cough, bronchitis, congestion and respiratory infections.

9.) Protects against Allergies: Onions are rich in Quercetin, an antioxidant which has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. Flavonoids contained in them block the allergy creating histamine.

10.) Promotes Bone Health: A study conducted on April 2014 revealed that onions also build connective tissues and bone health due to a newly identified substance in it called Growth Plate Chondrocytes (GPC's). Hence onions are very beneficial for women who are at a high risk of osteoporosis. There is also evidence that the risk of hip fracture in menopausal women may be lowered through regular consumption of onions.