Health Benefits
Onions are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are known to offer a variety of health benefits, such as:
Lower Risk of Cancer
Many kinds of onions contain a wealth of chemicals that help fight cancer. Onions are among the richest food sources of a nutrient called quercetin, which is known to prohibit the activity or creation of cancer-causing elements. A quercetin-rich diet has been associated with a lower risk of developing lung cancer.
Lower Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Onions contain organic sulfur compounds. These compounds are the reason why onions have such a sharp, strong taste and smell. Organic sulfur compounds help reduce the level of cholesterol in your body and may also help break down blood clots, lowering your risk for heart disease and stroke. You should eat onions raw rather than cooked to get the most sulfur compounds from them.
Diabetes Control
Both the quercetin and organic sulfur compounds found in onions are known to promote insulin production, making them a helpful vegetable choice for those with diabetes.
Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Flavonoids come from plants and are found in particular abundance in onions. One study has found that those who consume a long-term diet high in flavonoids decrease their risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease.
Nutrition
Nutrients Per Serving
A ½ -cup serving of chopped, raw white onion contains:
- Calories: 32
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Protein: 1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Fiber: 1 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
Onions are also a good source of:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Potassium
- Manganese
- Copper
Things to Watch Out For
Likely the only negative effect you will notice from eating onions is that they can affect your body odor. When your body breaks down the sulfur compounds found in onions, they can react to sweat on your skin, creating what is generally considered to be an unpleasant body odor.
For those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, onions may increase gas and bloating. If so, their consumption should be limited.
