Most dinners contain onions, so we consume them on a daily basis. They make just about any dish taste better and have many health benefits. Onions are loaded with antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce the risk of heart disease, and protects against blood clots and low blood pressure. Then why does the body have a major side-effect?

Sensitive Digestive Tract

The body experiences major side effects if you have a sensitive digestive tract. Some patients here at Acupuncture Is My Life have a sensitive digestive tract, but refuse to stay away from onions because of the benefits. People with a sensitive digestive tract tend to experience gas, bloating as well as cramping whenever they enjoy meals with onions. 

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Individuals who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (or IBS), experience more severe symptoms. The soluble fibers in onions are called fructans, which are fermentable carbs. The small intestine digests these carbs very poorly, so once they reach the colon, rapid fermentation usually occurs. This causes severe cramping, abdominal pain, and bloating along with uncomfortable bowel movements in a person with IBS. IBS is the result of Spleen and/or Stomach Qi deficiency, which can be treated by an acupuncturist. An increase in Spleen and Stomach deficiency increases the individual’s susceptibility to extrinsic influences. This then impairs the regular ascending and descending of the Stomach and Spleen. To an acupuncturist, the irregular movement of Qi leads to bloating, abdominal pain, cramping and uncomfortable bowel movements. Therefore, in acupuncture, when experiencing these side effects, we strengthen the Spleen and augment Qi. 

If you have any questions or comments regarding stomach issues and your favorite foods, and how acupuncture can help, leave them in the comment section below… until next time, Acupuncture Is My Life, what’s yours?