What do onions, cholesterol, prostate cancer, and getting older have in common? Lots! And after a lengthy hiatus, the Onionista is back and ready to shed some light on these topics.
Properties of onion in relationship to cholesterol – The organosulfur compounds found in onions have been linked to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Several recent studies about onions and cardiovascular health are highlighted in the National Onion Association’s white paper titled “Onion Health Summary” and the associations research compendium “Onions-Phytochemical and Health Properties”.
Properties of onion in relationship to prostate cancer – According to a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (2002;94:1648–51), men who eat garlic, onions, leeks, shallots, scallions, and chives (vegetables of the Allium family) as a part of a healthy diet may reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer. Men who consumed more than 10 grams per day of Allium vegetables had almost a 50% reduction in risk of developing prostate cancer, compared with those who consumed less than 2.2 grams per day. Men with the most pronounced reduction in prostate cancer risk were those with the highest consumption of garlic and scallions, cousins to the onion.
Properties of onion in relation to aging – With age, men and women are often faced osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, neurological disorders, obesity, and cancer. Several scientific studies have shown in plant and animal studies how onions rich source of phytonutrients and antioxidants have a positive effect on combating or reducing the risk of having these diseases.
Now, I know this is a lot of health related information to absorb and by no means am I suggesting onions will prevent prostate cancer, high cholesterol or certain age related diseases. What I would like to impress upon you is the role onion plays in improving our well-being when part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
