Why do tears start coming from eyes as soon as you cut onion? how to avoid it

Onion is an important part of Indian kitchen and is used in almost every type of vegetable, salad and many dishes. Along with enhancing the taste, onion also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, folate, potassium and many antioxidants. This is the reason why it is considered a part of a balanced diet. However, cutting onion is not an easy task for many people, because tears start coming from the eyes as soon as they are cut.

In fact, Onion When cut, its cells break, due to which a special kind of gas is released. This gas comes in contact with the moisture present on the surface of the eyes and causes mild irritation. In response to this, the eyes start producing more tears to protect themselves. This is a normal and natural reaction of the body. Let us know what are the easy ways to avoid tears while cutting onions and what things should be kept in mind while cutting onions.

Follow these easy methods to avoid tears while cutting onions

If there are excessive tears in the eyes while cutting onions, then some easy solutions can help. Before cutting the onion, keep it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes, this can reduce the gas coming out of it. Always use a sharp knife, because a dull knife causes more damage to the onion cells and produces more gas.

Cut the onion in a place with good ventilation or keep the exhaust fan and chimney on, so that the gas can come out quickly. Cut the root part of the onion last, because this part contains more gas producing elements. Some people also consider wearing glasses to protect eyes useful. By adopting these easy methods, the problem of eye irritation and tears can be reduced to a great extent.

What mistakes should not be made while cutting onions?

While cutting onions, avoid using a dull or poorly sharpened knife, as it may release more gas. Do not cut onions in a closed room or place without air. While cutting onions, one should not make the mistake of repeatedly rubbing the eyes with hands, because this can increase the irritation.

If onion juice is on your hands, wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes. Instead of cutting a lot of onions at once, cut them as per need. If irritation in the eyes persists for a long time, there is severe pain or redness does not reduce, then do not ignore it as normal and consult a doctor if necessary.