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Red onions are a great source of nutrients such as vitamins C and B6, biotin, folic acid, chromium, calcium, and fiber. Thus, this vegetable has long been a familiar ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine.

Top 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Red Onions

1Improves Heart Health

Consuming red onions can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The quercetin compound found in red onions helps prevent atherosclerosis by removing plaque buildup and reducing the risk of heart attacks.

2Treats Respiratory Issues

The anti-inflammatory properties of red onions help relax the respiratory tract muscles and alleviate asthma and bronchitis. They are also effective in relieving coughs, colds, flu, sneezing, and runny noses. Additionally, red onions possess antiseptic and antibacterial properties, and they can neutralize the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.

Note: You can eat red onions with salt daily to treat coughs and clear phlegm.

3Controls Blood Pressure

Red onions are low in calories, sodium, and fat. Eating onions can increase blood vessel elasticity and effectively lower blood pressure. Moreover, they help thin the blood, break down blood clots, and filter out unhealthy fats.

4Prevents Cancer

The plant chemicals disulphide, trisulphide, cepaene, and quercetin in red onions have anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive properties. Particularly, Fructo-oligosaccharides in onions stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon and help reduce the risk of colon cancer and other cancers.

5Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial Effects

The quercetin and allicin in red onions have proven anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, the high fiber content in red onions helps protect the digestive system and prevent infections in organs such as the stomach and bladder.

6Benefits the Liver

Red onions contain significant amounts of sulfur and phenoplast. Thus, they play a positive role in liver detoxification, preventing dangerous diseases, especially liver cancer.

7Prevents Anemia

Iron is a micronutrient that actively participates in blood formation and oxygen transport from the lungs to cells, and red onions are rich in iron. Therefore, consuming red onions helps prevent anemia.

8Reduces Fever and Relieves Flu Symptoms

When suffering from a fever or the flu, eating red onions can help bring down the fever and alleviate symptoms due to the onion’s pungent taste, which promotes blood circulation and increases perspiration. At the same time, red onions boost the body’s immune system, helping to prevent common flu.

9Benefits Diabetic Patients

The compound Chromium in red onions helps lower insulin levels and improve glucose absorption in the body.

10Deodorizes and Repels Insects

In Vietnamese cuisine, red onions are the most commonly used ingredient to reduce unwanted greasy flavors and enhance the taste of dishes. Moreover, the strong-smelling gases released when cutting onions can repel insects.

Note: You can place a few onion slices on food about to be cooked to keep flies away. Placing sliced onions next to your bed will also keep mosquitoes at bay.

Things to Keep in Mind When Using Red Onions

– When buying red onions, choose those with distinct shapes and dry skins. Avoid sprouted, rotten, wilted, or discolored onions.

– Store red onions in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to prevent sprouting. Do not store them with potatoes, as they will absorb moisture and ethylene gas from the potatoes and quickly rot.

– To avoid tears when chopping onions, chill or soak them in water to minimize the release of the onion’s pungent gases.

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Although red onions offer numerous health benefits, there may be potential risks associated with their consumption. Therefore, it is advisable to consume red onions in moderation to maximize their therapeutic effects.