Why women should eat onions and how they are useful

Body slimness and health are directly dependent on the food consumed and its quality. It is difficult to find a more affordable and at the same time healthy vegetable than onions. This is a universal product that is present in the regular diet and in the menu of those losing weight. Nutrition onion soup prescribed for the treatment and prevention of a wide range of diseases.

Onions have anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, bactericidal, diuretic, laxative and other medicinal effects. But it is of particular value for women.

Unique properties of onions

Onions are a widespread vegetable crop. Many varieties have been developed that differ in taste, early ripening, and chemical composition. Even in Rus', onions were an important product and at the same time a universal remedy that healed and prevented diseases.

Main properties of onions:

• acts as a powerful antioxidant;
• normalizes metabolism;
• slows down the aging process;
• inhibits inflammation;
• neutralizes dangerous free radicals;
• prevents the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system - atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial infarction;
• protects against flu, colds, genitourinary infections;
• supports healthy teeth and bones;
• restores epithelial tissue;
• participates in the production of steroid hormones;
• accelerates healing processes for wounds and burns;
• necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system;
• increases protection of mucous membranes;
• has a calming effect on the nervous system;
• has a bactericidal and anthelmintic effect;
• removes waste, toxins, and excess water from the body, due to which swelling subsides.

Chemical composition, vitamins and microelements

The chemical composition of onions depends on the variety, growing conditions, timing and storage conditions.

Bulbs contain on average:

• water - 86%;
• dry matter - 14%, including proteins - 1.4 g, carbohydrates - 8.2 g, fats - 0.2 g, dietary fiber - 3 g, ash - 1 g, organic acids - 0.2 g.

Properly grown bulbs without the use of nitrates are rich in B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, choline, pantothenic acid, folate, pyridoxine), beta-carotene, ascorbic and nicotinic acids, vitamins K, E, H.

The bulbs contain micro- and macroelements:

• potassium;
• calcium;
• sodium;
• magnesium;
• silicon;
• sulfur;
• phosphorus;
• chlorine;
• iron;
• iodine;
• cobalt;
• manganese;
• fluorine;
• chromium;
• zinc;
• aluminum;
• boron;
• copper;
• selenium.

The energy value of onions is 41 kcal. One onion weighing 75 g contains 30.8 kcal.

What are the special benefits of onions for women?

Onions should form the basis of the diet of women, regardless of age, since they have a complete micro- and macronutrient composition, serve as a source of vitamins, proteins and amino acids, and have a detoxifying effect.

The plant fiber present in the composition absorbs and removes harmful chemical elements, waste and toxins, which has a beneficial effect on the functions of the digestive system. Onions have laxative properties and help cope with constipation and prevent the deposition of salt stones in the kidneys and joints.

Onions contain beta-carotene in small quantities, which has a pronounced antioxidant effect, slows down the aging process, strengthens the immune system, prevents the spread of genitourinary infections, and takes part in the formation of new cells.

Onions are valued for the presence of B vitamins, which perform a number of important functions for the female body:

• support the health of new cells;
• regulate blood glucose levels;
• reduce levels of bad cholesterol;
• have a positive effect on brain activity;
• participate in hematopoietic processes;
• improve the condition of capillaries and vascular walls, increase their strength and elasticity, reduce permeability;
• support reproductive function;
• slow down the onset of menopause;
• take part in the production of hormones.

Of particular value for women is vitamin B9, or folic acid, which is especially necessary during pregnancy for the mother and fetus. It provides protection to the fetus from damaging factors and promotes normal maturation and activity of the placenta.

For reference. Against the background of vitamin B9 deficiency, there is a risk of birth defects in the child from the nervous system, growth retardation, and anemia. Lack of folic acid also manifests itself in disorders in women in the form of anxiety, depression, apathy, and drowsiness.

What else is onion good for women? The bulbs contain zinc (0.85 mg per 100 g), which is necessary for the development of the gonads, has a positive effect on reproductive function, regulates testosterone levels in the blood, and improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails.

With insufficient intake of zinc into the body, diseases of the skin and mucous membranes occur, nails become brittle, and active hair loss is observed.

As a means for losing weight

People who are constantly struggling with excess weight have questions about whether it is possible to eat onions on a diet and how they contribute to weight loss.

Bow at low calorie content has a rich vitamin and mineral composition and meets the body's needs for ascorbic acid, sodium, magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorus, potassium and other vital micro- and macroelements.

The benefits of onions as a means of fighting extra pounds are contained in plant fiber. These are complex carbohydrates that are absorbed by the body over a long period of time, while filling the body with energy and not turning into new fat deposits.

When onions are consumed in any form, the intestines, liver and blood are cleansed of waste and toxins, and the feeling of hunger does not occur for a long time. The stomach fills with non-calorie fiber, which takes a long time to digest, and you begin to lose weight.

The beneficial properties of fiber for the body do not end there; its functions are diverse:

• normalizes metabolism;
• improves digestion;
• removes toxic substances, heavy metal salts and other harmful compounds from the body;
• has a mild laxative effect - stimulates intestinal motility, changes the nature of stool, facilitates the process of bowel movement;
• increases endurance and performance;
• slows down the body's absorption of fats and carbohydrates;
• controls the processes of bile production;
• reduces the level of bad cholesterol;
• supports the natural microflora of the large intestine.

B vitamins provide conditions for the normal functioning of the nervous system, making the diet easier to tolerate and no problems with sleep. Ascorbic acid, iodine and iron support the immune system. This is important, because when we lose weight, we lose not only excess weight, but also health, because fatty tissue serves as a supply of nutrients for the immune system.

For beautiful skin and hair

Onions and their juice are used in dermatology and cosmetology. It has a beneficial effect on skin condition:

• restores and maintains epithelial tissues;
• slows down the aging process;
• smoothes out small wrinkles;
• tones;
• moisturizes;
• gives the skin a healthy color, natural blush;
• reduces the number of rashes on the body and prevents the formation of new elements;
• neutralizes swelling;
• stimulates collagen production;
• eliminates dark circles under the eyes;
• fights pigmentation.

Onions are no less useful for hair. When in contact with the scalp, it activates blood circulation processes, which stimulates growth and stops hair loss. With regular use of onion infusion or decoction, hair acquires a healthy appearance, becomes elastic, silky, and shiny.

For good health

The benefits of onions for the body, regardless of a person’s gender and age, are priceless. Regular consumption of raw vegetables serves as a preventive measure ARVI, acute respiratory infections, bronchitis and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Phytoncides present in the bulbs kill and suppress the growth and development of pathogens, prevent their penetration into the lower respiratory organs, minimizing the risk of complications.

Onions are used as a diuretic for the treatment and prevention of heart and vascular diseases. B vitamins normalize hematopoietic processes, improve the condition of vascular walls and small capillaries, and reduce blood cholesterol levels. Magnesium and potassium support proper functioning of the heart muscle, regulate blood pressure, and participate in the transmission of nerve impulses.

Onion for oral administration or external use is prescribed to patients gout, rheumatism, arthritis and arthrosis of various origins. The vegetable has a pronounced diuretic effect, dissolves and removes salt deposits, prevents the formation of salt stones in the joints and kidneys, neutralizes swelling at the site of the lesion, and relieves pain.

One of the most important effects of onions in relation to the human body is to cleanse the digestive system of waste and toxins, excess sugar, and other substances. Onion juice strengthens the stomach, stimulates appetite, helps regulate bowel movements, and normalizes metabolism.

For reference. Experts note that thanks to phytoncides and the cleansing effect, onions provide the prevention of cancer.

Consuming enough onions can prevent various pathologies of bone tissue. The vegetable is necessary for normal growth and development of the body, mineralization of teeth. Onions must be present in the diet of athletes and people engaged in heavy mental, physical and emotional labor.

The rich vitamin and mineral composition helps tidy up the nervous system, activates thinking processes, improves memory, and restores physical and mental strength.

In what form and how should women consume and use onions correctly?

The beneficial properties of onions for the body depend on the processing method, serving size and combination with other foods. Ideally, consume fresh onions or onion juice, as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

However, onions can irritate the mucous membranes, so in some cases it is advisable to heat treat them. For external use, an infusion or decoction is prepared, processed into juice, or made into a paste.

For weight loss

Many variations have been developed onion diets, varying in duration and diet. The principle of losing weight is based on eating mainly onion soup. Each woman, depending on her state of health and gastronomic preferences, can choose the optimal diet option that corresponds to the desired result.

For some, the best choice will be a quick but tough way to get rid of extra pounds. Others will prefer slower weight loss, but safe for health. Professional nutritionists recommend fasting days on onion soup. This diet lasts 1-2 days, during this period you are allowed to eat only onion soup (can be prepared according to different recipes) + a lot of water and green tea without sugar. Fasting days allow you to maintain a certain weight or return to normal after periods of overeating.

If you aim to adhere to a longer regimen for 3, 5, 7 or 9 days, the diet must be expanded, mainly with fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, unleavened cereals, low-fat meat, poultry, and fish.The effectiveness of losing weight varies in the case of a particular person and depends on his ability to strictly follow the chosen diet plan, metabolic rate, and lifestyle. On average, you can get rid of 0.3 g to 1 kg of excess weight per day.

You can cleanse the intestines with fresh onions, using them as an ingredient in vegetable salads, vegetarian soups, and seasonings for meat and vegetable dishes. The main condition: when preparing any onion dish, try to make it less caloric. It is not recommended to eat onions fried in oil on a diet. Gentle methods of culinary processing of the product include boiling, stewing, and baking.

Beneficial for the human body fresh onion juice. However, it turns out concentrated and has a specific taste, so it must be combined with other vegetable juices or diluted with water.

For reference. Eating vegetables and fruits will not only be healthy, but also budget-friendly, especially if you buy them in season. On average, one day on an onion diet will cost 150-250 rubles. It will be more expensive if you add meat or chicken to your diet - an additional 150-200 rubles.

For skin and cosmetic purposes

An infusion or decoction is prepared from fresh onions and peels, which is then used to rinse the head to stop hair loss and eliminate oily shine. This is a good remedy in the fight against dandruff.

To remove pigmentation, smooth out fine wrinkles, give the skin a healthy appearance, and reduce the number of rashes, wipe the skin with freshly prepared onion juice. Rejuvenating, toning and moisturizing face masks are made from onion pulp.

Recipes for medicinal products with onions for women

For those who are interested in how to get rid of hair loss at home, onion mask, which strengthens hair and prevents hair loss.

Recipe and procedure for use:

1. Peel the onion, chop in a blender or grate.
2. Rub the paste into the skin using massage movements. The massage should continue for 5-10 minutes until you feel a warm, slight burning sensation.
3. After this, put a plastic bag on your head and wrap it with a preheated towel.
4. Keep for 30-60 minutes. Then wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo.

To stop hair loss, apply the mask every other day a total of 20 times. For the purpose of prevention, the procedure is repeated once a week.

The next recipe is a whitening face mask. Before starting the procedure, the face is cleansed of dead cells. To prepare the mask you will need 4 tbsp. l. onion juice, 1 tbsp. l. apple cider vinegar, 2 aspirin tablets, 3 tbsp. l. olive oil, one egg yolk, 1 tsp. honey, ¼ part apple.

How to prepare a face mask:

1. Grind the peeled onion in a blender, place on gauze folded in several layers and squeeze out the juice.
2. Crush aspirin tablets into powder.
3. Peel and seed the apple and cut into pieces.
4. Place all ingredients in a blender bowl and blend until smooth.
5. Apply the mask to the face and neck skin for 15-20 minutes. Repeat the procedure 2 times a week.

When using an onion mask for the first time, it is important to determine the degree of sensitivity to the components of the composition. To do this, apply the finished product to the inner forearm for 15-20 minutes and observe the reaction.The product can be used if side effects such as itching, peeling, redness, and skin irritation do not occur.

Onion juice can be used to make lotion for dry skin, mixing 1 tsp. juice of fresh onions with an equal amount of cucumber juice and 250 ml of warm water. Wipe clean and dry face once a day in the morning. Store the mixture in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator.

Possible harm and contraindications

Despite its beneficial properties, prolonged and abundant consumption of onions can provoke a number of undesirable consequences from the digestive and nervous systems. Signs of excess vegetables manifest themselves in the form of drowsiness, apathy, vomiting and nausea, headaches, exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases, heartburn, and a feeling of bloating.

For reference. The average daily intake of onions for a healthy woman’s body varies between 50-100 g.

Before using onions for weight loss or for medicinal purposes, it is necessary to exclude possible contraindications, including:

• allergy to the product;
• cholelithiasis;
• epilepsy;
• low blood pressure;
• pyelonephritis;
• asthma;
• severe mental disorders;
• stomach diseases and duodenum of an inflammatory nature.

Onion soup diet Contraindicated for children, adolescents and the elderly, with serious liver or kidney diseases, or pathologies of the endocrine system. External use of a product based on onions is not possible for skin diseases, dermatosis, rosacea, or violations of the integrity of the integument at the intended site of application.

Onions are included in the list of foods allowed during breastfeeding.However, you need to be careful and observe the baby's reaction. In some cases, milk becomes bitter after eating onions, and the baby may refuse to breastfeed. Then a nursing mother needs to temporarily exclude fresh onions from her diet.

Conclusion

In the East there was a saying: “With the onion in your arms, every disease goes away.” The widespread use of onions in cooking, cosmetology and folk medicine is proof of this. Onions have a pronounced diuretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant effect, help you lose weight, and have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails.

You can list the medicinal qualities of a vegetable for a long time, but to be convinced of its effectiveness, it is enough to include onions in the basis of your diet, and unnoticed you can improve your health, improve the functioning of the nervous system, heart and blood vessels, and the gastrointestinal tract.