The nutrition
ninja
Whilst the onion may not be the hero ingredient of many meals, it definitely stands out in terms of its health attributes. From supporting gut, heart and brain health to fighting free radical damage, onions are a reliable, versatile and affordable pantry staple.
RESEARCH UPDATES
HEALTH AND NUTRITION RESOURCES
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EAT ONIONS
MEAL PLANS
The Onion Report, 2024
This comprehensive report summarises more than 100 studies, over nearly 30 years, on the nutrition and health benefits of onions.
Accredited Practising Dietitian, Teri Lichtenstein, reviewed the latest research to inform the report, which includes the continually emerging health benefits of the high levels of phytochemicals in onions, including quercetin, sulfoxides and anthocyanins.
The report also contains practical information including nutrition information panels by variety and cooking method, as well as tips for on how to prepare onions to encourage their consumption at maximum antioxidant levels.
Research Updates
Onion supplementation improves body fat, blood pressure and cholesterol
In the first of its kind, a comprehensive review of literature on onion supplementation has found significant cardio-metabolic benefits.
Natural bioactive compounds in onions can help reduce obesity
Onions are rich in bioactive compounds and have been found to help prevent various chronic diseases, including obesity. A systematic review and meta-analysis of five clinical trials (using onions and onion peels) found body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and triglyceride levels were all significantly reduced in those who consumed onions compared with the placebo group who did not. The authors concluded onion intake had an anti-obesity effect which reduced body weight and body fat, and this effect was particularly pronounced with onion peel.
Neuroprotective effects of onion in Alzheimer’s disease
The protective role of onion against neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease can be attributed to active ingredients such as flavonoids, and quercetin in particular. Quercetin is a phytochemical that possesses antioxidant properties and has a protective effect against ageing – it has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic and anti-viral properties.
Farm tours
Join us as we take groups of health professionals to onion farms across Australia.
Culinary
inspiration
This website is funded through the Hort Innovation Onion Fund, using the Onion marketing levy. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture. Marketing enquiries email: marketing@horticulture.com.au Editorial media enquiries email: pr@bitecom.com.au
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