5 Harmful Effects Of Eating Onions In Excess Amount

Onion or bulb onion is a popular vegetable that belongs to the genus Allium. They have been cultivated in many regions of the world for centuries, and are available in different varieties like Red Onion, yellow onion, and green onion.

Nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibers, etc in onions provide amazing health and beauty benefits. However, in excessive quantities, onions may cause side effects and health problems.

# Not Safe For Individuals Who Are Allergic To Onions

Onion can be consumed regularly due to the abundance of nutrients that provides tremendous health and beauty benefits. But, if you are allergic to onions then you should stay away from them as it could give rise to allergic symptoms like redness of skin and eyes, itchy skin, breathing difficulty, oral swelling, and tingling.

Excessive intake of onions may drop our blood pressure to an abnormally low level that requires immediate medical attention.

# May Cause Intestinal Gas And Abdominal Bloating

Natural sugar like fructose in the onion is known to produce gas in our stomach. In small quantities, this isn’t a problem. However, when onions are consumed in excess, the build-up of excessive gas may lead to abdominal bloating, stomach discomfort and in increased flatulence, etc.

This is due to the poor efficiency of our digestive system to digest sugars. Excess sugars enter the intestines and are broken down by bacteria. During this process, gas is formed.

If your digestive system is intolerant to onions, then you may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

# May Cause Heartburn

Consuming onions regularly strengthens our cardiovascular system and keeps our heart healthy. However, in excessive quantities, this may lead to digestive problems like heartburn (a burning sensation and extreme pain in the chest).

As per a 1990 study published in the “American Journal of Gastroenterology ”, people who over-consume onions are more likely to experience digestive problems like heartburn, and pregnant women are at even higher risk.

To stay safe, eat onions in moderation, and in case of pregnancy, consume onions only after consulting with your doctor.

# May Interfere With Certain Medications

Vitamin K, a natural blood-clotting agent in the onions (especially green onions) interferes with the functionality of blood-thinning medications like warfarin and coumadin, etc.

So, if you are on blood-thinning medications then consume onions after having a word with your doctor.

# Too Much Potassium Is Bad For Our Health

Onion contains potassium, a vital mineral, and a natural vasodilator that relaxes our blood vessels improves blood circulation and provides relief from hypertension or high blood pressure. It also improves cardiovascular health.

However, eating too many onions may increase potassium levels in our bodies. High levels of potassium in our body may drop our blood pressure to an abnormally low level thereby increasing the risk of hypotension. Some common symptoms of hypotension are dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, nausea, and fatigue, etc.

Also, potassium in the onion could interfere with medication meant for regulating hypotension. So, if you are taking medication for regulating blood pressure levels, then consume onions in moderation and only after a doctor’s consultation.