Top 8 health benefits of spring onions

Spring onions also called as green onions are extensively used in continental dishes and Chinese preparations to enhance the flavor and taste of the dish. They combine the nutrients and health benefits of both onions and greens making it far more nutritious and beneficial for the body. These onions are rich in fiber, potassium, copper, manganese and vitamins like B6, C and K that make them the best natural remedy for various ailments. Here are the top eight health benefits rendered by spring onions –

Maintains normal vision

Green onions contain carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin that exert an eye-protective effect. This green vegetable contains vitamin A that plays a vital role in maintaining normal vision and keep your eyes healthy. They are also found to protect the eyes from inflammation and fight against macular degeneration — a clinical condition that results in loss of vision. Read more about Natural remedies for better eyesight.

Keeps your bones strong

Spring onions are loaded with high levels of vitamin C and vitamin K, both of which are essential for normal functioning of bones. Vitamin C helps in synthesis of collagen that makes your bones strong, while vitamin K plays a key role in maintaining the bone density. Read about the 7 foods you didn’t know are good for your bones

Aids in respiratory function

Well-known for anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, spring onions are one of the most commonly used natural remedies to treat viral infections, flu, common cold, etc. They are also found to stimulate the activity of respiratory system and aid in expelling sputum.

Exerts heart-healthy effect

The presence of antioxidants in spring onions helps in preventing damage of DNA and cellular tissue by inhibiting the action of free radicals. Vitamin C helps in lowering high cholesterol and blood pressure levels in the body which in turn lowers your risk of heart disease. The sulphur compounds present in these onions also help in reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases. Read more about Top 10 heart healthy foods

Prevents stomach complications

Beneficial in relieving gastrointestinal problems, spring onions are also helpful in increasing appetite and support the process of digestion. It is also found to act as a powerful natural remedy to prevent against diarrhea and other stomach related complications.

Protects against infection

Sulphur in spring onions inhibits fungal growth, while vitamin K helps in clotting of blood. They are also found to enhance the blood circulation and absorption of vitamin B1 by the body thereby reducing stress and tiredness. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects the body tissues from damage and inflammation. Read more Natural remedies to boost your immune system

Reduces risk of cancer

Green onions are rich in powerful sulphur-containing compound called allyl sulphide that helps in reducing the risk of developing colon cancer.  Flavonoids also help in preventing cancer by inhibiting the production of xanthine oxidase enzyme, which causes damage to DNA and cellular tissue by production of free radicals. Read about Top 10 food habits to prevent cancer

Lowers blood sugar levels

Studies have shown that the sulphur compounds present in green onions help in lowering the blood sugar levels. This is achieved by increasing the levels of insulin — hormone essential for transportation of sugar in the blood to the body cells. Read more about 10 tips to prevent diabetes

References:

Vitamin K and Vitamin C – University of Maryland medical Center

Vegetables and Fruits – Get Plenty Every Day – Harvard School of Public Health

Nijveldt RJ – Flavonoids – A review of probable mechanisms of action and potential applications