Sunday 9 December 2012

Onions Are Really One of Our Super Foods!

Onions are a true Super food and we should try to include some in our everyday diet. Onions, Shallots, Chives, Leeks and Garlic belong to the “Alium” family and contain some potent properties reputed to cleanse your system and have unique anti-bacterial properties. Onions also contain naturally occurring antiseptic oils “Allyl Disulphate” and “Cycloallin”, research has found that Cycloallin helps the walls of blood vessels dissolve clots that can form inside of them – this chemical is still found even after high temperatures, like frying.

Antioxidant Rich Onions
Onions contain Antioxidant Flavonoids, such as Anthocyanin’s, which impart a red/purple colour to some varieties, and the flavanols… such as Quercetin which reduces inflammation and can provide protection against cancer.


Onions also contain Antioxidant Beta-Carotene, Potassium and the Sulphur rich amino acid Cysteine, Fibre, Calcium, Vitamin C and Foliate. I personally try to choose Organic varieties as most conventional crops are sprayed with chemical anti-sprouting agents. Alternatively you can grow your own, Garlic and Chives are so easy to grow either in pots or flowerbeds, you can also buy onion sets or grow onions from seeds. Onions, Shallots and Garlic are probably one of the most versatile and well used ingredients in many savoury recipes, for me they are essential for extra flavour and the health benefits they can offer.

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