Doctors Reveal: The Potential Side Effects of Eating Green Onions

Green onions (also called scallions or spring onions) are widely used in many cuisines and are often praised for their vitamins and antibacterial properties.

However, doctors and nutrition experts point out that eating green onions incorrectly, at the wrong time, or in excess can cause unexpected health problems, especially for people with sensitive digestive systems.

1. Digestive Irritation and Stomach Discomfort

Why green onions can be harsh on the stomach

Green onions belong to the Allium family, which contains sulfur compounds and strong essential oils.

These substances can irritate the stomach lining.

Possible symptoms

• Burning sensation in the stomach

• Bloating and gas

• Nausea

• Acid reflux

This risk is much higher when green onions are eaten raw

.

2. Eating Green Onions First Thing in the Morning: Is It Harmful?

Yes, it can be problematic for some people

After waking up, your stomach is empty and your digestive system is still “waking up.”

Eating green onions immediately in the morning—especially raw—can be too aggressive.

Why this happens

• An empty stomach is more sensitive to sulfur compounds

• Green onions stimulate gastric acid secretion

• This may cause stomach pain or heartburn

Who should be especially careful

• People with gastritis

• Those with acid reflux (GERD)

• Individuals with a weak or sensitive stomach

✅ Doctor’s advice:
If you want to eat green onions in the morning,

never eat them alone or raw.

 Always combine them with other foods and preferably cook them.

3. Risk of Bad Breath and Body Odor

Why green onions cause odor

Green onions contain volatile sulfur compounds that enter the bloodstream after digestion and are released through breath and sweat.

Side effects

• Strong, lingering bad breath

• Unpleasant body odor

This effect is

strongest when eaten raw, especially in large amounts.

4. Potential Impact on Blood Pressure and Circulation

Green onions may slightly lower blood pressure due to their natural compounds.

Who should be cautious

• People with low blood pressure

• Those taking blood pressure medication

Eating too much may lead to:

• Dizziness

• Lightheadedness

• Fatigue

5. Digestive Gas and Intestinal Discomfort

Raw green onions ferment in the gut, which can cause:

• Excess gas

• Abdominal cramping

• Intestinal pressure

People with IBS or sensitive digestion often report worse symptoms after eating raw scallions.

6. Raw vs. Cooked Green Onions: Which Is Better?

Raw Green Onions

Pros:

• Higher vitamin C content

• Strong antibacterial properties

Cons:

• Much harder to digest

• More likely to irritate the stomach

• Strong odor and gas production

Cooked Green Onions (Recommended)

Pros:

• Easier to digest

• Less stomach irritation

• Reduced sulfur intensity

• Still retain beneficial nutrients

Cons:

• Slight loss of heat-sensitive vitamins

✅ Doctors generally recommend lightly cooking green onions, especially for:

• Morning meals

• People with digestive issues

• Elderly individuals

7. Can Green Onions Interfere with Medications?

Green onions contain compounds that may slightly thin the blood.

⚠️ People taking:

• Blood thinners

• Anticoagulant medications

should avoid consuming large quantities regularly without consulting a doctor.

How to Eat Green Onions Safely

✔ Eat them after a meal, not on an empty stomach
✔ Choose lightly cooked over raw
✔ Use them as a garnish, not the main ingredient

✔ Avoid eating large amounts daily
✔ Drink warm water after consuming

Final Medical Perspective

Green onions are not harmful by nature, but timing, quantity, and preparation method matter greatly

.

 Eating them raw on an empty stomach—especially early in the morning—can lead to digestive discomfort, acid reflux, and other unpleasant side effects.

👉 For best results:
Eat green onions

in moderation, preferably cooked, and as part of a balanced meal.