The role of diet in improving vision is well documented in many scientific research studies. There are certain foods that protect eye health and also reduce the incidence of eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. When it comes to a class of vegetables that improve our eyesight, it’s easy to think of veggies like broccoli, kale, spinach, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. However, you may be surprised to learn that onions also belong to the class of foods that improve vision. Onions have often gotten a bad rap, as some people loathe them because they burn your eyes if you slice them. However, did you know that this food for your eyes is actually packed with nutrients, vitamins and minerals that support healthy vision? In case you didn’t know, here are some health benefits of onions for better eyesight.
Onions belong to the family of vegetables known as leeks. This eye food is known as one of the most commonly grown vegetables with close relatives like chives, garlic and Chinese onions to name a few. These vegetables come from a subcategory of phytochemical-rich foods. They possess medicinal healing properties that protect the heart and immune system from free radicals that destroy healthy cells in the body. Here are some health benefits of onions for eyesight:
EYE HEALTH BENEFITS
Onions contain sulfur compounds that are responsible for producing an essential antioxidant vital to protecting eye health called L-glutathione. This particular antioxidant protects against oxidative damage in the eyes by protecting and strengthening the lens of the eye. This antioxidant protection reduces the occurrence of eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma. Due to the fact that eating onions increases L-glutathione levels, the antioxidant action of this master antioxidant protects eye lens health and reduces the risk of cataract formation. Also, red onions contain quercetin; another essential nutrient that promotes vision and plays a role in improving poor eyesight and preventing cataract formation.
GENERAL HEALTH BENEFITS
Onions contain a nutrient called quercetin, which promotes heart health and reduces the risk of cancer. Onions have also shown promise in terms of hypoallergenic properties. For example, in scientific laboratory studies, they play the role of antihistamines that help prevent allergic reactions in the body. Onions also have an ingredient called inulin. This substance is a water-soluble form of fiber that is beneficial in supporting the healthy functioning of the digestive system, thus preventing many digestive problems. This is because it nourishes beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Research shows that eating flavonoid-rich foods like onions actually reduces bacteria in the stomach that lead to stomach ulcers. Therefore, onions are a good dietary remedy for stomach ulcers.
Thanks to Joel Travers King