What is Capsicum?
In many countries, capsicums are also known as peppers or sweet peppers. Local to tropical America first, capsicums later spread to Europe and has only been accessible in New Zealand for about 30-40 years. They can be red, green, yellow, orange, white, purple-darker and lime green in color. Green and red originate from a similar plant, however yellow, orange, white and purple are diverse assortments. Red, orange, yellow and green capsicums are promptly accessible. White, purple-dark colored and lime green capsicums have a more constrained supply.
Capsicums are sweet and delicious with a gentle fiery flavor. Red capsicums, being riper, are sweeter than green capsicums. Shape differs with assortment, from the ordinarily discovered block-shaped capsicums to pointed ones. The smaller assortments are sometimes more easily available.
Nutritional Values of Capsicum
According to Mr. Ullas Sharma :
- A typical 100 grams of green bell pepper or capsicum comprises around 4 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of sugar and immaterial measure of Fats and proteins.
- Each capsicum’s nourishment content is different, for example, yellow and red have marginally high sugar in them and around 6-7 grams of carbohydrates. However, one does not need to check the calories of green vegetables, because the more you eat them, the better.
- Green vegetables are full of fiber content, vitamins, and minerals which keeps you full and maintains your digestion. They also keep you hydrated.
- Capsicum is useful for your general well being as it contains a great measure of vitamin A, C and folic corrosive, useful for your heart, prevention of heart diseases, lowering bad cholesterol, better eye health and for general resistance.
- A little bell pepper could give up to three times a greater amount of the suggested everyday measure of vitamin C, substantially more than any citrus sustenance.
Health Benefits of Capsicum
Anti-inflammatory Agent
Capsicum has anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce inflammation in almost any body part. This is also why you may have heard people applying capsicum to sore areas. Though this causes an extreme burning sensation due to the presence of antioxidants, it is very beneficial and also heals injuries faster.
Forms Mucilage
It helps form mucus in the nasal areas and hence, in getting rid of germs and dirt. It is, however, usually advised to not touch your eyes while chopping capsicum due to the extraordinarily high antioxidant composition which can cause a burning sensation.
Prevents Cancer
Capsicum prevents cancer because of its phytochemical nature which does not allow cells to multiply and further prevents the growth of cells. It is all so by virtue of its phenomenal natural composition.
Improves Heart Health
Capsicum aids vasodilation (the dilation of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure) and hence, ensures a healthy heart activity. It also prevents the soaring of vessels, thereby ensuring a vigorous heart activity. Regular consumption of the vegetable also regulates hypotension.
Hypoglycemic
Capsicum has hypoglycemia prevention properties that help cure type- II diabetes. On the onset of this type of diabetes, doctors recommend consuming capsicum in abundance. Pure capsicum juice is also recommended.
Skin Care
Capsicum has an abundance of vitamins and anti-inflammatory elements which helps revitalize the skin cells and makes it look healthier and supple.
Relieves Menopausal Symptoms
Capsicum consists of flavonoids that help to delay the onset of menopause. Lately, women as early as 40 years of age experience menopause. It is mainly due to a change in diet and lifestyle. Menopause at an early age actually has an adverse effect on the female body and hence it necessary for females to keep a check on their period pattern.
Frosty feet
During the winter season, when one happens to suffer with chilly feet, he/ she can cut up capsicum and place it in the socks. The mellow “hot” will help keep the feet pleasantly warm.
Optical framework
The high vitamin C and beta-carotene content make capsicums particularly valuable in counteracting eye issues like astigmatism, waterfalls and macular degeneration.
Relief from discomfort
Capsaicin in capsicum alleviates the mood in general. It also relieves you from cerebral pains and headaches.
Respiratory issues
Vitamin C combined with flavonoids contents in capsicum makes it decent sustenance that may prevent respiratory issues like asthma, emphysema, wheezing, lung contaminations, and so forth.
Digestion
Capsicum brings down triglycerides which are put away in our body fats thereby increasing our body digestion. This consumes more calories successfully.
How to consume Capsicum?
Capsicum can be consumed in the form of vegetable with Indian bread. It can also be added to cabbage curry, or it can be consumed dry or sautéed. It can also be used in salads, platters, and burgers along with low-fat mayonnaise.
