The onion (Allium cepa) is a versatile form of vegetable that can be used for both cooking and medicinal purposes.
The genus, allium, consists of garlic, spring onions, chives, shallots, and leeks. Many regard it to be one of the very first vegetables to be grown on the planet. In reality, the Romans, Greeks, and many other ancient nations have used it as food and medicine for thousands of years.
Additionally, recent studies have found numerous medicinal properties in onions due to it’s use as a natural remedy. For example, it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antithrombotic, anticancer and antioxidant properties. Not only does it contain the above properties but it also has defensive properties for the heart and liver. Despite all of it’s health benefits, the onions is still capable of causing unfavorable reactions in some people. According to Healthline, the four medical conditions listed below can be made worse if onions are consumed.
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A few number of people around the world suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A few symptoms of IBS includes, stomach pain, bloating, cramps, generalized weakness, and irregular bowel movements like constipation and diarrhea. Some people usually have to give up the consumption of onions permanently, as it can trigger or make worse, the symptoms of IBS.
2. Onions May Trigger Allergic Reactions
According to an article published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, it is possible to have a food intolerance or hypersensitivity to onions, but these cases are uncommon. Those with allergic reactions to onions may also experience red, itchy eyes and rashes if an onion comes into contact with their skin.
Heartburn, a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the contents of your stomach finds it’s way into your esophagus, the tube that connects your stomach and throat. As a result, you may feel burning sensations in your chest.
GERD is feasible only when the muscles at the end of esophagus relaxes and certain foods including onions can cause heartburn by relaxing these muscles. This is according to a study published in the year 2000
4. Bloating
Bloating is a situation in which the stomach becomes full of gas. Bloating can be very uncomfortable for some people and eating onions will only make it worse. In fact someone who experiences bloating frequently, would be advised to stop eating onions either temporary or permanently as the fibers of onions are capable of inducing significant amount of gas which will in turn lead to bloating.
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