Health Benefits of Onions: Why Should You Eat Them Daily?

Dark pink onion with glossy skin
Published date: 15-April-2025

Are onions good for you?

Yes,absolutely ! onions are good for you.They’re low in calories but packed with nutrients like vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Onions also contain quercetin, a powerful compound with anti-inflammatory and heart-protective benefits. Plus, they support gut health thanks to their prebiotic fiber

Quercetin Benefits

Onions offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in quercetin and sulphur compounds, which protect the body from damage caused by harmful free radicals. These compounds also reduce inflammation, keeping you healthy. Quercetin, a potent natural compound in onions, has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer properties. It helps lower blood pressure, supports heart health, and strengthens immunity by reducing allergies and inflammation. The antioxidants in onions help shield against serious conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases.

Red Onions benefits for Heart Health

Red Onions are excellent for heart health as they help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The anthocyanins in red and purple onions give them their vibrant colour and protect the heart, prevent cell damage, and fight inflammation. Onions also support liver function, aiding the body in flushing out toxins naturally. The quercetin and flavonoids in onions are particularly helpful for people with arthritis and autoimmune conditions, as they reduce inflammation. Additionally, the antioxidants in onions lower bad cholesterol (LDL), improve blood circulation, and prevent blood clots, contributing to a healthier heart. Adding onions to your diet is a simple way to enhance overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Skin & Hair Health Benefits of Onions

Onions are beneficial for skin and hair due to their high content of vitamins C and B6, which promote collagen production and hair growth. The sulphur in onions boosts keratin production, a protein essential for strong, healthy hair. Sulphur compounds and quercetin also combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce skin inflammation. Applying onion juice can help dry out pimples, reduce redness, and prevent breakouts. The flavonoids and sulphur compounds in onions detoxify the skin, giving it a clear, radiant glow.

100 g Nutritional Benefits of Onions

NutrientAmountDailyValue
Calories40 kcal2%
Protein1.1 g2%
Total Fat0.1 g0%
Carbohydrates9.3 g3%
Dietary Fibre1.7 g6%
Sugars4.2 g
Calcium23 mg2%
Iron0.2 mg1%
Magnesium10 mg3%
Potassium146 mg4%
Vitamin C7.4 mg8%
Vitamin B60.12 mg9%
Folate (B9)19 µg5%

Disclaimer

While onions are generally safe and beneficial, consult a doctor before consuming them in large quantities. Avoid raw onions if you have acidity issues. Onions contain sulphur compounds that act as natural blood thinners and may increase bleeding risk when taken with blood-thinning medications like Aspirin. Onions naturally lower blood sugar levels, which can be risky for those with hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) or those on diabetes medications (insulin, metformin, etc.).