Using foods to fight cancer is important because diet plays an important role in the overall treatment strategy. Onions are a true “superfood” when it comes to fighting cancer. This is because they are a rich source of quercetin and onionin A.
Quercetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid—a type of plant pigment that belongs to a class of compounds called polyphenols. The anti-cancer benefits of quercetin are still being researched, but studies have suggested several potential mechanisms through which it may help prevent or slow down cancer progression:
- Antioxidant properties: Quercetin acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells and lead to the development of cancer.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Chronic inflammation has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Quercetin has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of inflammation-related cancers.
- Cell cycle regulation: Quercetin has been shown to influence cell cycle regulation, which may help prevent the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.
- Apoptosis induction: Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a natural process that helps maintain a balance of healthy cells in the body. Quercetin has been found to promote apoptosis in cancer cells, which can help prevent the spread of cancer.
- Inhibition of angiogenesis: Angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels, is a key process in the growth and spread of cancer. Quercetin has been shown to inhibit angiogenesis, potentially limiting the growth and metastasis of tumors.
- Modulation of enzyme activity: Quercetin can modulate the activity of certain enzymes involved in the detoxification of carcinogens, potentially reducing the risk of cancer development.
Onionin A is a sulfur-containing compound found in onions. It has been found to possess various anti-cancer effects, which include:
- Anti-proliferative effect: Onionin A inhibits the growth and proliferation of cancer cells by interfering with cell cycle progression and inducing cell cycle arrest.
- Apoptosis induction: Onionin A can induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells, which helps to prevent tumor growth and spread.
- Anti-angiogenesis: Onionin A has been found to inhibit angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels that support tumor growth and metastasis.
- Anti-metastasis: Onionin A can suppress cancer cell migration and invasion, reducing the risk of metastasis (cancer spreading to other parts of the body).
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Onionin A exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to prevent chronic inflammation—a known risk factor for cancer development.
- Immunomodulatory effects: Onionin A has been shown to modulate immune system activity, which can aid in the body’s ability to recognize and fight cancer cells.
- Antioxidant properties: Onionin A possesses antioxidant activity, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and DNA damage, both of which are implicated in the development and progression of cancer.
- Modulation of cancer-related signaling pathways: Onionin A has been found to interfere with several signaling pathways involved in cancer development and progression, such as the Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, and STAT3 pathways.
- Synergistic effects with chemotherapy: Some studies have suggested that Onionin A may enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs, potentially improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients.
To help find more ways to incorporate onions into your diet, I recommend checking some of these cookbooks:
- Perfect Onion Cookbook: The Complete Guide to Cooking with Onions by Nancy Silverman
- The Onion Lover’s Cookbook: Knowing and Using Onions, Garlic, Leeks, Shallots, Spring Onions and Chives by Brian Glover
- Onions Etcetera: The Essential Allium Cookbook by Kate Winslow and Guy Ambrosino
- Hello! 365 Onion Recipes by Ms. Fleming and Ms. Fruit
- 500 Onion Recipes by Hannah Young
- Onion Delights Cookbook: A Collection of Onion Recipes by Karen Jean Matsko Hood
