Health Benefits of Onions

Dry onions are a surprising source of fiber and a rich source of healthy sulfur compounds, similar to those found in garlic. Research on onions has lagged behind garlic research, but onions appear to have similar cardiovascular benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels, at least in the short term.

Onions
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Onions are a good source of fiber, flavonoids, and vitamin C.

Onions also contain phytochemicals called flavonoids, which help vitamin C in its function, improving the integrity of blood vessels and decreasing inflammation. All this spells help for your cardiovascular system. One particular flavonoid, quercetin, may inhibit tumor growth and help keep colon cancer at bay.

In addition, a newly identified compound appears to rival the prescription drug Fosamax in inhibiting bone loss in menopausal women.

Onions also contain vitamin C and chromium. Chromium is a mineral that helps cells respond to insulin, ultimately assisting with blood glucose control. Green onions, because of their bright green tops, provide a wealth of vitamin A.
Nutritional Values of Dry Onions
Serving Size: 1/2 cup chopped
Calories 46
Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Saturated Fat 0 g
Carbohydrate 11 g
Protein 1 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Sodium 3 mg
Vitamin C 6 mg
Vitamin B6 <1 mg

Nutritional Values of Fresh Green Onions
Serving Size: 1/2 cup chopped (stalks and bulbs)
Calories 16
Fat 0 g
Saturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Carbohydrate 4 g
Protein 1 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sodium 8 mg
Vitamin A 498 IU
Vitamin C 10 mg
Iron 1 mg
Carotenoids 867 micrograms

Want even more information about onions? Try these links:
  • Why do onions make you cry? Grab a tissue and find out just what it is about onions that brings on the waterworks.
  • Nutrition: Learn how onions fit into your nutrition plan.
  • Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
  • Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.