5 Healthy Benefits Behind Red Onions

Shallot is one type of food that is quite often used in various Indonesian specialties. The distinctive aroma can add to the delicacy of the cuisine as well as appetizing.

In addition, red onion has several health benefits. As is known, red onion belongs to the genus of onions.

Allium is a genus of onions which is known for its diverse nutritional and antioxidant content. Therefore, it is not surprising that red onion has several health benefits. The following are the health benefits of shallots as reported by Food Fact by Mercola.

Reducing Cancer Risk

One of the biggest benefits of onion comes from its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants can reduce the risk of several types of cancer.

Shallot is known to contain several types of antioxidants such as quercetin, kemferol and some sulfur antioxidants. These various antioxidants will work together when red onions are cut during preparation for cooking and form a new compound called allicin. Allicin makes red onion has good cancer fighting properties.

Improve blood circulation

Shallots are also known to be rich in iron and copper. Both are minerals that are known to increase red blood cell production.

Higher red blood cell counts can help carry more oxygen throughout the body. That way, the process of cell growth, healing and energy gets better.

Keeping cholesterol levels optimally

In addition to reducing the risk of cancer, allicin in onion can also help regulate cholesterol levels. Allicin works by inhibiting the production of reductase enzymes in the liver that are responsible for cholesterol production.

Cholesterol levels that are maintained can keep away from a variety of risk of disease. Some diseases that are often related to cholesterol levels are coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke.

Reducing Blood Pressure

The combination of potassium and allicin in red onion will release nitric oxide in the body. This condition will help lower blood pressure.

As is known, potassium is known as a vasodilator. Vasodilators evaporate agents that allow blood vessel walls to relax so that blood can move more freely.

Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels

Besides allium, red onion also contains allyl disulfide. Both of these compounds can help regulate blood sugar levels so that they can help diabetic patients control their blood sugar levels.