Onions Help Prevent Cancer!
Incredible Health Benefits of Onions
Whether you love or dislike the taste of onions, the one thing most of us agree on is that we love the smell of onions sizzling in a frying pan on the stove. Of course that is after we have cleared our tear ducts from the stingy tears that erupted as we were chopping and mincing this powerful bulb. Apparently science has now officially proven that the natural waterworks we experience are caused by the chemical syn-propanethial-S-oxide that is released when the onion is sliced. And as you know, it can be quite the irritant!
Onions contain organic sulfur compounds that give them their familiar pungent smell. These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, and may promote detoxification.
Additionally, onions contain important phytochemicals such as quercetin and allicin. Quercitin breaks up mucus in the head and chest and has been shown to reduce inflammation and enhance the immune system. Allicin is an immune stimulating nutrient that is released when the bulb is chopped or crushed, and has been reported to slow down the activity of some viruses and bacteria.
Recent research has shown that quercetin has properties that can slow cancer growth, and even stop metastasis to other parts of the body.
The organic sulfur compounds have been shown to have similar effects. Many studies now link a higher intake of onions (especially RAW) with lower rates of deadly cancers.
Another amazing vegetable to consider is garlic! Together, not only do these two vegetables make meals extremely flavorful, they also a have a powerful healing effect on the body.
Most recipes include onions to make the flavor profile better, and I happen to have one such recipe for you to explore! How about our Spinach Stuffed Portobello!