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Yes, Onion Powder is Paleo!

Onion Powder and Paleo

A common ingredient in seasoned salt and spice mixes, onion powder is made from dehydrated, ground onion used as a seasoning for pizza, pasta, chicken, meat, sauces, salads, soups and vegetables. It gives a concentrated intense, flavor to many dishes. Usually, onion powder is commercially prepared and is available worldwide but it can also be homemade.

Because onion powder is the ground, dehydrated form of onion, it is approved in the Paleo diet.

Nutritional Value of Onion Powder

While onion powder is used in small amounts, it doesn’t mean that it no longer contain nutrients. In fact, onion powder contains the same nutrients that its origin onion has.

Onion powder is rich in vitamins C. It is also a potent source of minerals calcium, potassium, manganese, iron and dietary fiber and phytochemicals. Onion powder is very low in fat, sodium and calories too.

Health Benefits of Onion Powder

Onion is considered to be one of the healthiest vegetable available. Because of the nutrients found in onion powder, using it for cooking offers many health benefits including bone health and wound healing.

Heart Health

Onion powder makes a great substitute for salt in a variety of recipes. It is very low in sodium which is helpful in reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart diseases including stroke. Potassium is also present in onion powder which helps regulate blood pressure.

Bone Health

Calcium is one of the richest nutrient found in onions and onion powder. It is essential for healthy and strong bones and teeth. It supports the growth and development of bones. Calcium also plays a role in the proper absorption of other minerals in the body such as vitamins D, K and magnesium. Eating calcium-rich foods can prevent osteoporosis.

Blood Sugar Levels

While onion powder contains trace amounts of magnesium, it may contribute to bone health, immunity, nerve function and aids in regulating blood sugar level.

Dietary Fiber

Onion fiber contains dietary fiber which aids in proper digestion. A diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of stroke, obesity, heart diseases, diabetes and high blood cholesterol.

Low in Calories

Because onion powder is low in calories, it is beneficial to people who are trying to maintain or lose weight.

Easy Steps To Make Your Own Onion Powder

Most commercially available onion powders often contain ingredients such as anti-caking agent or natural flavor like MSG (monosodium glutamate). Some may have soy or other fillers too. In the Paleo world, these additives and other ingredients are not approved. So it is better to create your own which is actually a very easy, cost-effective and healthier.

  1. Choose fresh organic onions from the local farmers market.
  2. Make sure that the onions are clean then peel the dried skins of onions and cut each into thin slices.
  3. Separate the slices and put them into an oven that is set at a low temperature.
  4. Dehydrate the onions until completely dry and brittle enough. Allow them to cool.
  5. Put the dried onions in a coffee grinder or food processor until powdery. You can also use mortar and pestle to grind the onions if a coffee grinder is not available.
  6. Store the onion powder in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place. Enjoy!

What Experts Says About Onion Powder

“If it’s beneficial allyl sulfur compounds you want to consume, eating your alliums raw and sliced is the ticket. Heat breaks down the compounds. The only problem is that those same allyl sulfur compounds that might fight cancer, boost antioxidant status, and ward off liver damage are the very things that make raw onion and garlic so pungent and unpalatable”. – Mark Sisson

All you ever wanted to know about Onion Powder and Paleo

Mark Sisson. Why You Should Eat Sulfur-Rich Vegetables

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/why-you-should-eat-sulfur-rich-vegetables/#axzz3OrIP9KcH

The Paleo Mom. Onion (Powdered)

http://www.thepaleomom.com/onion-powdered/

Wellness Mama. Garlic, Onion, & Chili Powder

http://wellnessmama.com/2511/garlic-onion-chili-powder/

Is Onion Powder Paleo?

http://paleoporn.net/q/is-onion-powder-paleo/

Livestrong. What Are the Health Benefits of Onion Powder?

http://www.livestrong.com/article/488904-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-onion-powder/

SF Gate. Healthy Eating. What Are the Health Benefits of Onion Power?

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-onion-power-7465.html

Amazing Health Benefits Of Onion Powder

http://www.boldsky.com/health/wellness/2015/amazing-health-benefits-of-onion-powder-091640.html

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