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In addition to the organoleptic properties that make it very valuable in the kitchen, this food is also a good ally for health: we are referring to the onion.
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Onions contain small carbohydrate molecules that help maintain and improve gastrointestinal health.
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Onion is also known for its antibiotic properties which enable it to ward off certain infections, especially those of the respiratory tract.
The food is present in many dishes of Spanish gastronomy, both raw and cooked. In addition to its organoleptic properties, which make it very valuable in the kitchen, it is also a good ally for health. We mean onions.
moisturizing properties
Like most vegetables, onions (Allium cepa) contain a large proportion of water (90%), so their calorie content is very low, about 40 kcal per 100 g of edible portion when eaten raw. It also contains small amounts of simple carbohydrates (3–9%) and some protein (1%). It does not contain fat or cholesterol. The quantity and quality of dietary fiber is different (about 2%). It is soluble fiber, mainly fructooligosaccharides, small carbohydrate molecules that help maintain and improve gastrointestinal health. Soluble fiber, when it reaches the colon, acts like a prebiotic, supporting the growth of bacterial flora beneficial to intestinal health and helping to control blood cholesterol levels. It also provides minerals: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, some calcium, iron or selenium, among others, and very little sodium. Among the vitamins, group B (B1, B2, B6, niacin, folic acid) and vitamin C are prominent.
The Secret Is in the Quercetin
But its biggest strength lies in quercetin, which is an antioxidant that is very beneficial for health. Among its analgesic, antiplatelet, vasodilator, antiarthritic, antibacterial, antiflu, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antisular, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antiasthmatic and antiherpetic properties are most distinct.
It has also been proven effective in the control and prevention of the following diseases:
- Cardiovascular diseases: Helps prevent arteriosclerosis, hypertension, angina pectoris and thrombosis. Similarly, it keeps cholesterol under control and improves the fluidity of the blood.
- Diabetes: Prevents kidney damage caused by high blood sugar levels.
- Cancer: Its high antioxidant power inhibits the growth of malignant tumors, especially of the breast, ovary, prostate, lung and gallbladder.
- Alzheimer’s: A diet rich in quercetin protects us from degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
antimicrobial
Onion is also known for its antibiotic properties which enable it to prevent certain infections and other antiseptics, making it a natural antibiotic. This vegetable is also good for the respiratory system. In fact, it is an excellent expectorant, mucolytic and antitussive that helps improve respiratory infections such as flu, cold, bronchitis, hoarseness, asthma… and it also improves allergy symptoms.
This food is also a powerful anti-inflammatory. Its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties help improve conditions such as arthritis, colitis or Crohn’s disease. It also has cosmetic uses. Strengthens hair, provides volume, and density, and prevents and eliminates dandruff. In addition, it is beginning to be studied as an anti-aging asset.
