With cold andflu seasonupon us, the immune-boosting tips are making the rounds on social media.
Since that video was posted, people have been sharing their versions of the tonic and toting its benefits.
As youd probably expect, onion water is no miracle cure during cold and flu season.
svehlik / Getty images
But are there any risks to drinking onion water?
Heres what experts say.
Some research has suggested that theanti-inflammatory effectsmay support immune system function.
Bard added that the veggie also containssoluble fiber.
Fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn, promotes healthy immune function.
When theyre part of a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, onions could certainly help support a strong immune system.
Benefits of Drinking Your Onions
Eating onions is one thing.
But can drinking water thats been infused with onion offer the same benefits as including them in your diet?
These prebiotic fibers help support healthy and diverse gut microbiota.
William Li, MD
The benefit of onion water is mostly the water, which provides hydration.
The benefit of onion water is mostly the water, which provides hydration.
Is Drinking Onion Water Risky?
That said, there are some words of caution to consider before trying it.
Many fruits and vegetables can become contaminated with bacteria likesalmonellaorlisteria.
it’s possible for you to get really sick if you ingest these organisms.
There are also health risks of combining fresh produce and waterespecially if the concoction is unrefrigerated.
In fact, it could even raise your risk for foodborne illness.
At the very least, the drink could be irritating and unpleasant.
United States Department of Agriculture.FoodData Central: red onion, raw.
Li Y, Yao J, Han C, et al.Quercetin, Inflammation and Immunity.Nutrients.
2021;13(3):886. doi:10.3390/nu13030886
North Carolina State University.Infused water safety tips.
