Risks of Eating Raw Onions
Disease description:
I don't know when my boyfriend developed this habit, but he just likes eating raw onions, claiming they have antibacterial properties. I find this quite unreliable and would like to know the potential risks of eating raw onions.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Although eating raw onions offers many health benefits, such as boosting immunity, promoting digestion, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, it also poses some risks:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Onions contain abundant sulfides and fiber, which may cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and other discomforts in some individuals, especially those with sensitive digestive systems or gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Allergic reactions: Certain components in onions may trigger allergic reactions, such as skin itching and rashes. Additionally, the pungent odor of onions may irritate the eyes, causing tearing and eye discomfort.
3. Drug interactions: Some components in onions may interact with certain medications, affecting their efficacy. For example, patients taking anticoagulant drugs should avoid consuming large amounts of onions, as onions may enhance the anticoagulant effects of these medications and increase the risk of bleeding.
Therefore, it is recommended to consume onions in moderation and pay attention to individual physical condition and health status to avoid excessive intake or discomfort.
