The health benefits of onions

Avoid scary blood clots

Rutin, a compound found in high amounts in onions and apples, could help prevent dangerous blood clots, according to a study published this year in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Rutin inhibits platelet accumulation in arteries and fibrin generation in veins, both signs of blood clots.

Fight cancer

Cornell University researchers compared shallots and 10 onion varieties for their ability to fight free radicals and inhibit cell growth. Among other findings, the 2004 study showed that shallots have the highest total antioxidant activity and were very effective against liver cancer cells.

Boost folate

Folate (also called folic acid, or vitamin B9) plays a key role ?in brain function, and mental and emotional health. A ½ cup (125 mL) of green onions has nine percent of your daily needs.

Strengthen bones

A study by the Medical University of South Carolina published in 2009 found that women age 50 and over who ate onions at least once a day had a five percent greater bone density than those who ate onions once a month or less. Women who eat them often may also lower their risk of hip fracture by more than 20 percent compared to those who never eat onions.

Reduce pms symptoms

A landmark clinical trial done in North Dakota in the 1990s showed that women who ate high amounts of manganese in their daily diet had fewer mood swings and cramps than those who consumed the least. The onion family contains this essential mineral: Just a ½ cup (125 mL) of leeks has 13 percent of your daily needs of manganese.

Control blood pressure

Onions, like apples and berries, are a great source of the antioxidant quercetin. A study at the University of Utah published in 2007 showed quercetin reduces blood pressure in people with hypertension. It also seems ?to protect the lining of blood vessels (damage to this lining increases risk of heart disease).

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