Capsicum is one of the nutritious vegetables. According to its name, it is not spicy, but it is very tasty to eat. Hence it is used in many dishes. It is called capsicum in Hindi, capsicum in English and bell pepper. Capsicum is used in salads, vegetables, Chinese fast food etc. We see it mainly in three colors like red, yellow and green.
The scientific name of capsicum is Capsicum (which is also its genus). Basically this vegetable is from the continent of South America where it is being cultivated for about 3000 years ago. There are mainly five species of capsicum, which are called Capsicum anum, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum frutescens, Capsicum bactum, and Capsicum pubescens. All these are called peppers i.e. capsicum in common language. Capsicum contains energy, carbohydrates, sugar, fiber, iron, protein, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and vitamins.
Nutritional Information About Capcicum
A fresh, raw capsicum composed primarily of water (92%). The rest is carbs and a small amount is protein and fat. Nutrients found in 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of raw, capsicum –
- Calories: 31
- Water: 92%
- Protein: 1 gram
- Carbs: 6 grams
- Sugar: 4.2 grams
- Fiber: 2.1 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
Benefits Of Eating Capcicum
1). Capsicum Benefits for Weight Loss
If you are worried about losing weight, then capsicum is very beneficial for you. It contains very less amount of calories which is helpful in weight loss. This also increases the process of metabolism. Along with burning calories, it does not allow cholesterol levels to rise.
2). Beneficial for eyes
Capsicum contains substances called lutein and zeaxanthin, which can protect against cataracts. Vitamin A is also present in capsicum, which can help in maintaining proper eyesight. In addition, it contains a high amount of vitamin A, which is beneficial for the eyes. Using capsicum as a dietary supplement can help enhance vision and the ability to see, especially at night.
3). Cancer prevention
It is believed that capsicum is also very beneficial in preventing cancer. It does not allow cancer cells to grow. It is believed that by consuming capsicum in some form every day, the chances of getting cancer are greatly reduced. It provides relief in cancer due to the presence of sulfur compounds and lycopene.
4). Helpful in anemia
Due to lack of iron in the body, red blood cells cannot be produced and the problem of anemia arises. Some amount of iron is found in capsicum, which can prevent anemia. In addition, vitamin-C is also found in capsicum. Vitamin-C can help the body absorb iron. That is why the benefits of eating capsicum can be seen to avoid a condition like anemia.
5). Benefits in diabetes
Diabetes has become a common disease in today’s time. But daily consumption of capsicum gives relief from diabetes. Consumption of capsicum keeps the level of sugar in our body right. You can especially consume green capsicum as it has high amount of hypoglycemic properties.
6). Make Digestive System Healthy
Capsicum has many properties to overcome problems related to digestion. By consuming it, the digestive system starts working smoothly, which gives relief from stomach ache, gas, constipation etc. Apart from this, the ulcers in the stomach are also removed by eating it.
7). Beneficial for skin
Capsicum can also be beneficial for the skin. It contains an element called capsaicin, which is used in many skin creams. It can help in tightening the skin. Also, it can save to some extent from various types of skin problems. Along with this, Vitamin C present in capsicum keeps the skin safe from many infections, while also strengthens the joints.
8). Beneficial for hair
Red capsicum is a good source of vitamin B6. Its consumption also gets rid of the problem of hair fall. It delivers plenty of oxygen to our hair follicles and at the same time improves the circulation of blood to the root of the hair. This stimulates hair growth and stops hair fall. It also prevents hair from turning white.
9). Effective in gas problem
Red capsicum reduces the contractility in the intestines. Hence it is beneficial in the treatment of ulcers. Along with this, it is also helpful in removing gas problems. Capsicum is rich in Vitamin A, C and antioxidants.
10). Beneficial in arthritis
If you have arthritis, then eating capsicum will be beneficial for you. Eating capsicum with quinine will be even more beneficial.
Shimla Mirchi Benefits
11). Weight Loss
Capsicum is considered best for reducing weight. Weight can be reduced easily by consuming capsicum. Many such elements are found in green capsicum which can help in reducing the weight rapidly.
12). Helps Relieve Depression
Capsicum also helps a lot in removing depression. This is because magnesium and vitamin B6 are found in plenty in capsicum. Which helps in removing mental stress.
13). Relieves Body Pain
By including capsicum in your diet, body pain can also be reduced. This is because some elements are found in capsicum which act as pain killers.
14). For Iron Deficiency
Capsicum is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin C is very essential for the absorption of iron. Iron deficiency increases the risk of anemia.
15). Capsicum is Good for Bones
Doctors believe that manganese is found in proper amount in capsicum. Manganese is an element that makes your bones strong. Vitamin K is also found in capsicum which protects you from diseases like osteoporosis.
Side Effects Of Capcicum
Although there is no more harm than the use of capsicum, but excessive consumption can cause harm. ,
- Blood pressure patients should avoid excessive consumption of capsicum.
- Consumption of capsicum can cause allergic reactions for some people.
- Children, pregnant women and lactating mothers are advised to keep the regular consumption of capsicum to a minimum.
FAQs
1). Can we eat capsicum daily?
Consuming capsicum in some form or the other everyday reduces the chances of getting cancer.
2). Is capsicum good for stomach?
Capsicum has found to have a good effect on gastrointestinal problem like flatulence, stomach upset, diarrhea and even abdominal cramps.
3). Why eat capsicum?
Capsicums have many health benefits. They are rich in vitamins but low in calories. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Capsicum also contains good amount of fiber, folate and iron.
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