Onions & Antibacterial
- Rayki Goh, MSc
- May 16
- 3 min read
Dear food people,
In this series of articles,we challenge ourselves to explain shocking food facts in the simplest way possible and within just 1-minute, so you can learn to make wiser food choices each week!
Always remember, FOOD IS MEDICINE.. and if you eat right, you might even find yourself losing some excess weight without breaking a sweat.
Now, let’s get to it~
ONIONS
Onions, a staple in kitchens around the world, are not only renowned for their flavour but also recognised for their impressive health benefits. Scientifically speaking, onions are rich in sulphur-containing compounds, particularly allicin, which is known for its potent antibacterial properties. These compounds serve as the onion's natural defence mechanism, evolved to ward off pests and diseases.
When an onion is chopped or crushed, it triggers a chemical reaction that produces allicin, responsible for its characteristic pungent aroma and its ability to inhibit the growth of various bacteria.
Allicin has garnered considerable attention in scientific research for its potential to combat a variety of bacterial strains, including those responsible for common human infections.
It works by disrupting the structure of bacterial cell walls, effectively preventing the bacteria from replicating and spreading. This antibacterial action is particularly relevant today, given the rising concern over antibiotic resistance. While onions may not replace antibiotics, their antimicrobial properties can complement traditional treatments and support overall health.
Interestingly, the benefits of onions extend beyond their antibacterial properties. Some studies suggest that the sulphur compounds in onions may also exhibit antifungal and antiviral effects, offering a broader spectrum of protection.
However, it’s essential to understand that while onions can play a supportive role in maintaining health and preventing infections, they should not be seen as a cure-all. Their contribution to health is best realised as part of a balanced diet, where they can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments and support the immune system.
The chemistry behind the antibacterial properties of onions underscores their potential use not only in traditional and modern medicine but also in natural food preservation methods. By regularly incorporating onions into your meals, you could be tapping into these antimicrobial benefits, helping to maintain a robust immune system.
Here are Some Scientific Facts on Onions:
Quercetin in Onions: Onions are a rich source of quercetin, a flavonoid that can help reduce cancer risk. Studies show that quercetin inhibits cancer cell growth and induces apoptosis (programmed cell death). Research in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests quercetin may help prevent lung and prostate cancer.
Allicin's Antibacterial Properties: Allicin, found in onions, has effective antibacterial properties. Research in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy indicates that allicin can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which are commonly responsible for infections.
Antioxidant Capacity: Onions have a high antioxidant capacity, with red onions showing the highest concentration. Research in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that consuming onions can increase blood antioxidant activity by 25%, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Regular consumption of onions can significantly lower blood pressure levels, according to a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. This benefit is attributed to their high content of sulphur compounds, which help relax blood vessels.
Antifungal Activity: Onion extract has demonstrated antifungal properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans. This is associated with infections like thrush, as reported in the International Journal of Food Microbiology.
5 Popular Dishes You Can Prepare at Home:
French Onion Soup – A classic dish made with caramelised onions, beef broth, and a topping of crusty bread and melted cheese.
Onion Bhajis – A popular Indian snack made by deep-frying spiced onion rings in a gram flour batter.
Onion Tart – A savoury tart filled with caramelised onions and a creamy custard, perfect for a light lunch or appetiser.
Balsamic Glazed Onions – Sweet and tangy onions cooked down in balsamic vinegar, making a delicious side dish.
Grilled Onion Salad – A refreshing salad with grilled onions, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette.
The information provided in our articles is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content on our website, including articles, is not meant to endorse or promote any specific medical treatments, products, or procedures. The information provided is based on general knowledge and research at the time of writing. Medical practices and knowledge are constantly evolving, and what may have been accurate at the time of publication may not be current or applicable today.
