Adopting a diet devoid of onions and garlic may seem unconventional to some, but it has been observed by many Indians for centuries as these foods are believed to have stimulating or negative effects on the mind and body.
For instance, in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, onions and garlic are considered rajasic and tamasic foods, believed to increase passion and aggression and induce lethargy, respectively.
By abstaining from these ingredients, adherents aim to cultivate a sense of calmness, clarity, and purity within themselves, aligning with the principles of mindfulness and holistic living.
Benefits of the no onion, no garlic diet
Kanikka Malhotra, a consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, mentions that there are several benefits to this type of diet.
First, she says, onions and garlic contain sulfur-containing chemical compounds called fructans and disulfides. These can irritate the esophageal lining, particularly in persons who are prone to heartburn or acid reflux. Removing them may lower the number and severity of heartburn episodes.
“Some people have IBS symptoms such as bloating, gas, and stomach pain when they consume particular foods. Onions, garlic, and other FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) are frequently responsible,” she adds. Eliminating them can be part of a dietary approach to treating IBS symptoms, but it’s critical to consult with a healthcare provider as well.
Some people may be hypersensitive to onions and garlic, causing discomforts such as nausea, diarrhoea, or stomach cramps after eating them. Removing them can provide relief in these situations.
Onions and garlic are high in antioxidants and allicin, an antioxidant with possible health advantages such as decreased blood pressure and cholesterol. (Source: Freepik)
Impact on digestive health after removing onions and garlic from one’s diet
The effects on overall gut health are mixed, says Malhotra. “Both onions and garlic include prebiotics, which nourish beneficial intestinal bacteria. However, they can aggravate certain people’s digestive systems.”
Onions and garlic are both prebiotics, which means they support the beneficial bacteria that live in your stomach. “These bacteria help to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for digestion, immunological function, and overall health.”
However, the small intestine does not readily absorb prebiotics. They pass through the large intestine and are fermented by gut bacteria, resulting in gas. While fermentation might be beneficial, she informs it can also cause bloating, gas, and abdominal pain in certain people.
“Some people may develop a general sensitivity to onions and garlic, causing discomfort such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps even if no underlying illness is present. Removing them can help to solve these problems,” Malhotra suggests.
Nutritional concerns to be mindful of when following a no onion, no garlic diet
Onions and garlic are high in antioxidants and allicin, an antioxidant with possible health advantages such as decreased blood pressure and cholesterol. Removing them from your diet can lead to a reduced intake of beneficial compounds. Malhotra also informs that these root vegetables provide depth to recipes. “Their absence may lead to a greater reliance on salt or harmful fats for taste.”
In the end, she stresses that it’s important to remember that abstaining from onions and garlic isn’t universal in India. “Additionally, while onions and garlic might be triggers, stress, fatty foods, and spicy cuisines can all cause digestive problems. To determine the root reason, consult a healthcare practitioner.”
The evidence tying onions and garlic especially to digestive difficulties in otherwise healthy people is primarily based on anecdotes and limited research. More research is needed to determine a conclusive correlation.
