Health benefits of Onion

An onion is a vegetable that is the most widely cultivated species of the genus Allium. The shallot is a botanical variety of the onion which was classified as a separate species until 2010.  21  Its close relatives include garlic, scallion, leek, and chive. This genus also contains several other species variously referred to as onions and cultivated for food, such as the Japanese bunching onion (Allium fistulosum), the tree onion (A. × proliferum), and the Canada onion (Allium canadense). Onions contain antioxidants and compounds that fight inflammation, decrease triglycerides and reduce cholesterol levels, all of which may lower heart disease risk. Their potent anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce high blood pressure and protect against blood clots.

Benefits of Onion

1. Rich in nutrients

Most onion cultivars are about 89% water, 9% carbohydrates (including 4% sugar and 2% dietary fiber), 1% protein, and negligible fat (table). Onions contain low amounts of essential nutrients and have an energy value of 166 kJ (40 kilocalories) in a 100 g (3.5 oz) amount. Onions contribute savory flavor to dishes without contributing significant caloric content.

2.Contains antioxidants

Antioxidants may help prevent cell damage by fighting free radical molecules. Free radicals are developed when the body is exposed to radiation or tobacco smoke. These molecules can cause diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. By eating onions you can help your body fight free radicals and improve your overall health.

3.Lowers blood sugar level

If you have diabetes, onions are an excellent way to help keep your blood sugar levels steady. The flavonoids in onions work to keep the blood glucose levels stabilized. If levels are low, you might experience symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, headache, and many other signs.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Onions contain an antioxidant called quercetin. Quercetin is an anti-inflammatory and works to fight off inflammation within the body. It is great at lowering swelling, helping with arthritis, and treating bladder infections.

5. Improves digestive health

Onions contain a high amount of prebiotics and fiber. In the body, this helps improve gut health by aiding in digestion, strengthening the immune system, and lowering inflammation.

6. Contains vitamin C

The onion contains a high amount of vitamin C, it is essential for your body to function properly. It helps the formation of blood vessels, improves your immune system, and builds cartilage.
Unknown facts about Onion

1. Name – derivation

The plant’s name comes from the Latin Unio or annianus and is associated with the welsh einion, meaning “anvil”. The Late Latin name Unio was used to describe a species of onion resembling a single white pearl. This was later formed into the basis for the French, “oignon” and then later the English, “Onion”.

2. The first used Onion

Onion is thought to have originated more than 5000 years ago in Central Asia and is one of the most ancient of food sources. Its consumption by humans can be traced back to the Bronze Age. A staple in the diet of many early civilizations, it was especially important in ancient Egypt.

3. The oldest Onion
The bulb is dated to 700 AD, which is the time just before the Viking Age, and it is the oldest known evidence of the use of onions in Denmark. The bulb comes from the burial site on Bornholm, an island in the Baltic Sea to the east of the main area of the country.

4. Why you’re crying while chopping an onion?

Onions produce the chemical irritant known as syn-Propanethial-S-oxide. It stimulates the eyes’ lachrymal glands so they release tears. Recent studies from Japan, however, proved that lachrymatory-factor synthase,  is the reason behind the tears while chopping an onion.