Do onions cause weight gain?

Aug 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, when eating barbecue, I especially enjoy eating the onions. Every time I eat them, I gain several pounds. I would like to ask, can onions cause weight gain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Consuming onions in moderation does not directly lead to weight gain.

Onions mainly consist of water, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Onions are relatively low in calories, and their rich dietary fiber content helps promote intestinal motility and enhances satiety, potentially reducing intake of other high-calorie foods.

Onion dishes that are fried or prepared with large amounts of oil significantly increase calorie content and may be detrimental to weight management. Therefore, the key to healthy eating lies in a balanced diet structure and moderate intake. Eating onions in appropriate amounts, especially using healthy cooking methods such as steaming or consuming them raw, will not only help avoid weight gain but also assist in providing essential nutrients, thus benefiting overall health.