How long you live, for the most part, is affected by the type of food you eat and whether or not you lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Regularly eating a healthy diet, particularly those that include a specific type of vegetable, could help improve your life expectancy.

Try reading about some of the oldest people in the world, and you will learn that their life longevity can be primarily attributed to their healthy eating habits. How they lead their lives, like their positive outlook and less-stressful environments, play a huge role.

In general, at least five portions of different types of fruits and vegetables make for a healthy and balanced diet. Eating high-fiber starchy foods such as rice, eating foods that are rich in protein, and having dairy or its alternatives in small amounts also helps. When it comes to vegetables, many experts believe that one, in particular, could help improve life expectancy.
The Onion Family

According to Dr. Sarah Brewer, a medical consultant, onions, and other allium family members are packed with natural chemicals that help regulate blood sugar levels and keep the heart-healthy. They have also been found to be useful in preventing the development of many types of cancer.

Red onions, for instance, are excellent sources of quercetin, a plant figment or flavonoid that have been proven to be very effective in treating inflammation, gout, asthma and viral infections. It has also proven its worth in its high efficacy in helping regulate blood sugar levels. Quercetin can also help improve endurance and performance in many physical activities. Other members of the allium family are spring onions, shallots, garlic, chives, and leeks.

Treating Illnesses Since Ancient Times

They contain many vitamins and minerals, as well as powerful plant compounds, which can help improve health in many ways. In fact, since ancient times, the medicinal qualities of onions have been recognized and used to treat various disorders like mouth sores, heart diseases, and headaches.

Onions are also rich in antioxidants that reduce cholesterol levels, fight inflammation, and decrease triglycerides. Its robust anti-inflammatory quality is very effective in lowering high blood pressure, as well as protecting against dangerous blood clots. They are also high in fiber and contain a fat-soluble type of vitamin B1.

In studies that look at the medicinal benefits of onions, researchers found they also have anti-aging properties. This particular feature of the onion is made possible by its compounds that counteract the glycation process. The glycation process is where the sugar in the blood attaches itself to proteins and then forms a harmful molecule referred to as advanced glycation end products. This ages the tissues of the body and is believed to increase type 2 diabetes risk. Onions have been found to neutralize this process.

The best thing about onions is they are easy to include in most dishes like stews and soups. So the next time you plan on getting a healthy and balanced diet, make sure it includes onions.