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
SIMPLE WAYS TO
EAT ONIONS
MEAL PLANS
Literature review
Beneath the layers of the humble onion lie many nutrition benefits, but not everyone knows just how healthy onions really are.
We have reviewed the latest nutrition research into onions and have prepared the Onion Health and Nutrition Report. This report summarises the nutrition and health benefits of onions, including conditions ranging from gut health, heart and brain health to emerging research for bone health, fertility, cancer prevention and healthy ageing.
The report also covers usage tips so more Australians can reap the benefits from adding more onions to their diet.
Research Updates
Effects of fermented onion on gut health
Onions are a nutritious vegetable with many health benefits, however, fresh onions are high in FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols), which may be problematic for people with Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD). Eating fermented onions may reduce FODMAP problems and increase the availability of bioactive compounds, especially quercetin.
Onion consumption daily can help improve overall bone density
Eating onions can have a beneficial effect on bone density in perimenopausal and postmenopausal non-Hispanic older white women. Those that consume onions most frequently may decrease their risk of hip fracture by more than 20% versus those who never consume onions.
The effect of onion phytochemicals on chronic diseases
Phytochemicals in onions can help prevent chronic diseases due to beneficial properties and effects such as anti-oxidant, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-cardiovascular and anti-cancer. This research examines the potential effects of onions and their phytochemicals on chronic diseases.
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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