Shallots and Onions

There are two sides to the issue of onions and shallots and blood sugar control.

Some sources swear that they are sweet vegetables when cooked, and should be avoided entirely. Other sources say that they have chemicals in them that help to lower blood sugar - And the do not disagree that they are better for you raw than cooked.

Cooked onions and shallots have less of the helpful chemicals by a huge percentage. But they are not generally something that will negatively affect blood sugar because they are used as a seasoning, and not as a primary food item.

Even though both sides agree that onions are healthier raw, there is still a good deal of controversy over just how healthy they are. Studies have been done that show some blood sugar lowering, but the validity of the results is called into question because of low numbers of participants.

Onions and shallots are not really an issue for blood sugar control, either way, unless you are eating them like apples, or enjoying a dish that features large portions of them. And in that case, do your own testing on yourself. It isn't likely to mess you up too badly in either direction, because reports so far are of mild effects, not serious ones, but as always, use your judgment, talk to your doctor, and proceed with caution.

Written by Laura Wheeler, Owner of Firelight Business Enterprises, Inc.