What antioxidant class is found in higher concentrations in red onions due to their characteristic deep coloring?
Answer
Anthocyanins
Red onions derive their deep coloring from a specific class of antioxidants known as Anthocyanins. These pigments are present in higher concentrations in red onions compared to paler varieties. Anthocyanins are structurally related to Quercetin, another powerful antioxidant abundant in all onions. This relationship means that the darker the skin or flesh of the onion variety, the greater the overall concentration of these protective pigments available for the body to utilize against oxidative stress.
Related Questions
What is the primary flavonoid antioxidant found concentrated in onions, especially in the outer rings?Which two prebiotic compounds are onions rich in that specifically nourish Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli in the colon?What preparation technique maximizes the creation of pungent sulfur compounds in chopped onions before cooking?What antioxidant class is found in higher concentrations in red onions due to their characteristic deep coloring?How do the specific sulfur compounds in onions contribute to lowering the risk of heart attacks or strokes?What essential functions are supported by the B vitamins, including Folate (B9) and Pyridoxine (B6), abundant in onions?What is the consequence of deeply cooking or boiling onions if the resulting cooking liquid is subsequently discarded?Which specific sulfur compound and flavonoid are investigated for their potential to help regulate elevated blood sugar levels in onions?How is the nutritional density of onions generally characterized when comparing their nutrient content to their caloric intake?What is the hypothesized mechanism linking onion consumption to improved bone density, especially in older women?