Okay, we are going to make this article quick – before we start crying. Onions are delicious and versatile, adding flavor to just about any dish. But did you know that onions are really good for you?

Fast health facts about onions:

Promotes Colon Health

Onions contain fructo-oligosacharides. These are oligomers that promote the healthy bifidobacteria in the colon and actually suppress the growth of harmful bacteria. Quercetin, an antioxidant found in onions, may even help reduce your risk of developing certain colon tumors.

Promotes Heart Health

The sulfides in onions may help lower blood lipids and blood pressure, and flavonoids which are known to protect against cardiovascular disease.  In addition, onions have certain anticoagulant properties, which can protect you from developing blood clots. The vitamin B6 in the onion helps lower homocysteine levels.

Helps Reduce Blood Sugar

Onions contain allylpropyldisulfide, which has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels by increasing the free insulin available in the body. Onions are also high in chromium, which has been shown to decrease fasting blood glucose levels, lower insulin levels, decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels and improve glucose tolerance in diabetics. In fact, one cup of onion contains more than 20% of the daily recommended amount of chromium.

Reduces Cancer Risks

This may be the most amazing benefit of all. According to case studies (Galeone C, Pelucchi C. et al,American Journal of Clinical Nutrition), participants in a study who consumed high amounts of onions showed a 25% reduced risk for breast cancer, 56% reduced risk for colorectal cancer, 73% reduced risk for ovarian cancer, 71% reduced risk for prostate cancer, 83% reduced risk for laryngeal cancer, 88% reduced risk for esophageal cancer, and a 38% reduced risk for renal cell cancer.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Onions and garlic both fight the enzymes lipoxygenase and cylooxygenase – which create prostagandins and thromboxanes. Simply put, these enzymes cause inflammation and pain. Onions contain high levels of Vitamin C, querctin and isothiocyanates. These work together to ease inflammation and pain.

So go ahead, wipe those tears and chop those onions. You’ll be smiling in the end.

Note: This article is for information purposes only. It is not meant to prescribe, diagnose, or suggest treatment. Consult your physician.