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Onion: Members
of the allium family, onions contain complex sulfur compounds.
When cutting an onion, two chemical reactions take place.
Enzymes release a strong odor and a volatile sulfur gas
irritates the eyes. The sulfur containing compounds in onions
are responsible for their health benefits. They contain allyl
propyl disulphide, which may lower blood sugar levels by
competing with insulin and actually increases the amount of
“free insulin” available. Onion has excellent amounts of
chromium and some potassium, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum
and calcium. It also has some vitamin C, trace amounts of B
vitamins iron and zinc. Onion contains the powerful antioxidant
Quercetin, flavonoids and several other micronutrients. Being
high in chromium, the mineral component in glucose tolerant
factor, onion can help decrease blood glucose levels, improve
glucose tolerance, lower insulin levels and decrease total
cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL or good
cholesterol. These factors decrease the risk of cardiovascular
disease. |
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