Onions provide a decent amount of micronutrients such as vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6 and potassium. This nutrient-dense vegetable are extremely effective at boosting our immune system and relieving symptoms of cold and flu. Onions are also rich in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that is capable of clearing free radical damages at capillary level, making onions an effective preventive measure for heart diseases. Onions have also been found to have anti-cancer capabilities. Not only do they protect cells from oxidative stress, they also have some tumor inhibiting abilities as well. Some good substitutes of onion with similar nutritional profile includes shallots, garlic, chives or leeks.
