When peeling onions, many people experience tears streaming down their faces due to the release of a compound called syn-propanethial-S-oxide. This compound irritates the eyes and causes them to water as a natural defense mechanism. However, there are a few tricks you can try to prevent this reaction and keep yourself from crying while preparing your meals. One common method is to wear goggles or glasses while cutting onions to create a barrier between your eyes and the irritating compounds. This can help minimize the exposure and reduce the likelihood of tears. Another option is to peel and cut the onion under running water or in a bowl of water to help wash away the irritants before they reach your eyes. Additionally, you can try chilling the onion in the refrigerator before peeling and cutting it. Cold temperatures can help slow down the release of the irritating compounds, reducing the chances of tearing up. Some people also recommend lighting a candle near the cutting board to burn off the compounds as they are released. If these methods do not work for you, there are also specialized kitchen gadgets available that claim to prevent tears when cutting onions. These devices use various mechanisms to contain the irritants and prevent them from reaching your eyes. Overall, finding a method that works for you may require some trial and error. Experiment with different techniques to see which one is most effective in keeping you from crying while peeling onions. Remember, everyone reacts differently to the compounds in onions, so what works for one person may not work for another. For more information on why onions make us cry and how to prevent it, you can visit websites like www.healthline.com or www.foodnetwork.com. These sources provide in-depth explanations and additional tips for dealing with onion-induced tears in the kitchen. In conclusion, while crying when peeling onions is a common occurrence, there are several strategies you can try to minimize the tears. Whether it's wearing goggles, chilling the onion, or using specialized gadgets, finding a solution that works for you can make meal preparation a more pleasant experience.

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