10 health benefits of capsicums (Bellpeppers)

DON’T YOU LOVE CAPSICUM IN YOUR PIZZA?  

Available in different colors, capsicum is used across the world in many different types of dishes. The vegetable, which is also known as bell pepper, originated in tropical America and has been used as a medicine because of its medicinal properties. It is low in fat and is a remedy for many diseases. The vegetable is one of the best sources of carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Here is a list of some of the health benefits of eating capsicum.

   Good for your heart. Lycopene, a phytonutrient, in the red capsicum keeps your heart healthy. The vegetable is a rich source of folate and vitamin B6, which lowers homocysteine levels, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body against free radicals. Among the different types of capsicum, there are also different nutritional profiles. For the benefit of weighing in on the nutritional value of a capsicum we will include all colors and varieties of the capsicum. Capsicum contains very low fat and is very high in fibre as well as water content. There is also a low amount of carbohydrates and calories in capsicum and is the reason why it is so beneficial for weight loss programs or if you’re looking for a healthy, light snack. 

*Capsicum Benefits*

Capsicum contains a whole array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can protect our cells and boost our immune system. Here are some additional benefits of capsicum you may not have been aware of:

*Eye Health*
Capsicum is incredibly beneficial for vision health. The reason is because capsicums are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that can protect your retina from oxidative damage. Studies show that consuming foods that contain high amounts of carotenoids can protect your eyes from macular degeneration. 

*Prevents Anemia*
Anemia is a condition that usually results because of low iron in the body. A characteristic of the condition is that it reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood. As a result, most people with anemia, feel sluggish and tired without a clear reason. Capsicum are very high in vitamin C and are moderately high in iron. The combination of these two vitamins and minerals allow iron to absorb more effectively. 

*Reduces Anxiety *

Capsicum is high in both magnesium and vitamin B6. These two vitamins are essential for nerve function and help relieve anxiety and prevent panic attacks. Magnesium can also help with tense muscles that result from anxiety. It also helps with proper heartbeat regulation. 

*Prevents Cancer*
Capsicum contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to prevent certain types of cancers. In fact, orange capsicum has been found to cut prostate cancer growth rate by 75%.

*Boost Immunity* 
Capsicum is very high in Vitamin C. In fact red capsicum has the highest vitamin C content among most of the fruit and vegetables. Foods high in vitamin C are beneficial for the immune system. The vitamin C in capsicum can protect the body against infection by encouraging production of white blood cells. 

Weight Loss Benefits of Capsicum
Capsicum contains a nutritional profile that is excellent for weight loss. Not only are capsicums rich in vitamins and minerals, but they are high in fibre and water content. Choosing vegetables and fruits that are high in fibre and nutrient dense is key to losing weight and weight maintenance. Fiber and water also provides the feeling of satiety and can effectively suppress the appetite and prevent overeating.  

Capsicums contain high amounts of vitamin B6. This vitamin is essential for many metabolic processes. It helps break down proteins into amino acids, aids in the synthesis of glucose from carbohydrates and breaks down fats effectively. Vitamin B6 can also help maintain your blood glucose and prevent blood sugar spikes. When losing weight, it’s important to keep blood sugar balanced in order to prevent sugar cravings and overeating. 

Red capsicums generally contain higher amounts of antioxidants and nutrients that aid in weight loss than other varieties. These phytonutrients help in preventing conditions like free radical formation and internal inflammation that act as predisposing factors of obesity and associated metabolic disorders. So if you are confused as to which capsicum to choose for your weight loss journey, the more red the vegetable, the better. However, if you are looking to dramatically reduce sugar or if you are diabetic, green capsicums contain less sugar than other varieties and can provide a good low sugar snack.