What can I do to prevent crying when cutting onions?

Question from Paul, DC

Answer:

I have found that placing onions in the freezer for an hour before cutting really works for me and avoids tears. However, someone told me that placing a matches between their teeth also works (I have not tried this personally). Another trick is placing a piece of bread between my front teeth with my mouth slightly open; this works because the spongy texture of the bread absorbed some of those noxious gases before they have the chance to float up to your nose and eyes.