What is the hypothesized mechanism linking onion consumption to improved bone density, especially in older women?
Answer
Antioxidants or sulfur compounds may help reduce bone loss by minimizing oxidative stress in the bone tissue.
Emerging research suggests a positive association between regularly eating onions and improvements in bone density, a finding of particular interest for older women facing increased risk of fragility. The proposed biological pathway for this benefit involves the onion's potent protective agents. It is theorized that the high concentration of antioxidants, such as Quercetin, or specific sulfur compounds may exert a protective effect within the bone tissue itself. By minimizing localized oxidative stress—a known contributor to degradation—these compounds are hypothesized to help slow down the natural process of bone loss.
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