8 Health Benefits of Peppers
December 17, 2021
Peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and certain types of peppers have even been shown to alleviate the symptoms of cancer.
They come in several different classifications and sizes, and can be spicy or mild depending on the type of pepper you choose. In addition to including peppers to your diet, get an extra boost of nutrition by adding a multivitamin to your daily routine.
Here are eight health benefits you can experience just by adding peppers to your regular diet:
Reducing the Risk of Eye Diseases
Red peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which can cut the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. They also contain carotenoids, which help to keep eyes bright and healthy. In fact, bell peppers contain some of the highest amounts of vitamin C that play a role in reducing macular degeneration, which is common in people over 50.
May Reduce the Likelihood of Anemia
Anemia is a lack of iron and oxygen in the blood and can cause weakness and fatigue. Half a bell pepper can supply as much as 100 milligrams of vitamin C, which can help to alleviate anemia. Vitamin C also helps to increase the absorption of iron in the gut.
May Protect Against Chronic Disease
Because they are rich in antioxidants, including bell peppers regularly in your diet can help protect against chronic disease like heart disease and cancer. They also contain polyphenols, which help to reduce toxins in your body that cause disease and have strong anti-inflammatory properties that help keep arthritis at bay.
In some studies, peppers have been shown to prevent memory loss in Alzheimer’s patients. They inhibit enzymes that release amyloid proteins, which scientists believe to inhibit neurotransmitters that help to aid in a healthy memory.
Polyphenols in peppers have been shown in studies to lower blood sugar levels. They contain capsicum, which helps to control blood glucose levels. They also contain enzymes, which aid in the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose at a slower pace, which helps to process sugars at a more regulated rate.
Red Peppers Add Vitamins to Your Diet
Red peppers have been shown to have a large amount of vitamin A, which is about 50 percent. They also contain vitamins C and E, iron, potassium, magnesium, beta carotene, vitamin B6, folate, niacin, riboflavin and vitamin K.
Green Peppers are Rich in Nutrients
Vitamin C from green peppers helps to increase your immunity, aids in collagen synthesis, and acts as a powerful antioxidant. Green peppers are also a good source of vitamin B6 that aids in neurotransmitter synthesis and helps to create hemoglobin, which is a protein that carries oxygen within red blood cells.
Peppers are an excellent source of fiber, which is good for your gut. A healthy gut is important for alleviating depression and diseases like irritable bowel syndrome. Eating fiber-rich foods like peppers are excellent for keeping your digestive system functioning well so you eliminate toxins from your body.
It’s good to buy different types and colors of peppers to mix up your flavor palette while also nourishing your body with a broad range of the vitamins and minerals they provide. Peppers are tasty by themselves or with your favorite dressing. The grocery store often sells mini-peppers that are pre-packaged and make a great on-the-go healthy snack.
