8 health benefits of spring onions we bet you didn’t know!

What about cooking spring onions or green onions tonight? Here's the secret you should know about!

By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | | Updated: March 20, 2015 5:31 pm

Tags: Green leafy vegetables Healthy food

Do you like Chinese and Continental dishes? What about spring onions that are an essential ingredient of these dishes? Well, the next time you eat these cuisines at home or restaurant; make sure you eat more of those green leaves of onions. This is because, in addition to providing a unique taste and flavour to the dish, spring onions are loaded with essential nutrients. But before you start consuming this healthy vegetable, you should know about its far-reaching health benefits. Also Read - Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day: Live a longer and healthier life

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The presence of antioxidants in spring onions helps in preventing damage of DNA and cellular tissue by inhibiting the action of free radicals. Vitamin C helps in lowering high cholesterol and blood pressure levels in the body which in turn lowers your risk of heart disease. The sulphur compounds present in these onions also help in reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases.

#2 Improves your bone density

Spring onions are loaded with high levels of vitamin C and vitamin K, both of which are essential for normal functioning of bones. Vitamin C helps in synthesis of collagen that makes your bones strong, while vitamin K plays a key role in maintaining the bone density.

#3 Aids in respiratory function

Well-known for anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, spring onions are one of the most commonly used natural remedies to treat viral infections, flu, common cold, etc. They are also found to stimulate the activity of respiratory system and aid in expelling sputum. Did you know that respiratory ailments can be treated wit the help of gem therapy?

#4 Maintains normal vision

Green onions contain carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin that exert an eye-protective effect. This green vegetable contains vitamin A that plays a vital role in maintaining normal vision and keeps your eyes healthy. They are also found to protect the eyes from inflammation and fight against macular degeneration — a clinical condition that results in loss of vision.

#5 Reduces risk of cancer

Green onions are rich in powerful sulphur-containing compound called allyl sulphide that helps in reducing the risk of developing colon cancer. Flavonoids also help in preventing cancer by inhibiting the production of xanthine oxidase enzyme, which causes damage to DNA and cellular tissue by production of free radicals. In addition to eating cancer-fighting foods, changing your food habits also help prevent cancer.

#6 Lowers blood sugar levels

Studies have shown that the sulphur compounds present in green onions help in lowering the blood sugar levels. This is achieved by increasing the levels of insulin, a hormone, which is essential for transportation of sugar in the blood to the body cells. So add this vegetable to your list of healthy vegetables.

#7 Prevents stomach complications

Beneficial in relieving gastrointestinal problems, spring onions act as a powerful natural remedy to prevent diarrhoea and other stomach complications. In addition to this, they also improve your appetite. Being loaded with high amounts of fibre, this green vegetable helps your digestive system to function better.

#8 Protects against infection

Sulphur, a mineral, present in spring onions inhibits fungal growth, while vitamin K helps in clotting of blood. They are also found to enhance the blood circulation and absorption of vitamin B1 by the body thereby reducing stress and tiredness. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects the body tissues from damage and inflammation.

You may also liek to read about health benefits of onions.

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Published : March 20, 2015 3:59 pm | Updated:March 20, 2015 5:31 pm

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