5 Health Benefits Of Eating Capsicum

Capsicums, referred by another name, bell peppers, and they are one of the most nutrient-rich foods. They have a sweet-savoury flavour. Capsicums are loaded with vitamins, minerals and contain vast reserves of vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K1. Capsicum benefits range from blood clotting to antioxidants, skin health to eye health, and fetal development to heart health. Capsicums can prevent a variety of chronic ailments like anaemia. Apart from these, capsicums help to keep the skin clear and boost hair growth.

Capsicum goes by the scientific name of Capsicum annuum and belongs to the nightshade family. It is called capsicum here in India and bell peppers in the US and Canada, and they come in bright colours. They are used in various types of cuisines and are a rich source of vitamins A and C.

* Antifungal and Antibacterial

Capsicum has been found to have antifungal properties and has also shown antibacterial qualities against some foodborne bacteria. It acts as an analgesic and antiseptic with wound healing properties too. This is good news for those who try to combat cases of food poisoning. One of the advantages of capsicum is that it helps in treating food poisoning by reducing cramps, alleviating stomach spasms, and pain. Capsicum helps in repairing the damaged tissues in the stomach and the gastrointestinal tract.

* Rich In Antioxidants

The antioxidants are higher in capsicums of darker colours, and we all know how important it is to have antioxidants to help us naturally fight free radical damages. Capsicum has many bioactive compounds that provide antioxidant effects. Improved vasodilatation aids antioxidant phytochemicals to circulate throughout the body. It allows the protection and repair of tissues and DNA damage.

* Prevents Blood Clotting

Studies show that hot peppers help to prevent blood clots and heart disease by increasing blood flow. This is due to Capsaicin, the natural chemical that puts the “spiciness” in hot peppers. Certain studies show that hot peppers may even be more effective than aspirin.In capsicum benefits, capsaicin helps to promote circulatory blood flow by way of its natural ability. It increases blood flow to the stomach, which in turn stimulates the production of digestive juices.

* Prevent Cancer

Among capsicum health benefits, a capsicum a day can keep cancer at bay, say experts. This is because of the rich source of phytonutrients and antioxidants in it. When these two combine, they can help prevent cancers, especially prostate, pancreas, bladder, and cervix. Capsicum has tannin, which is said to prevent cancer that is caused by malignant tumours such as gastric cancers.Research proves that plant is beneficial in treating and preventing other hormone-related cancers. Capsicum has good anticancer potential. A study stated that capsaicin, an active component of capsicum changes the genetic expression that is related to cancer cell survival, metastasis, and growth arrest. This could be very promising for future cancer research.

* Lowers Cholesterol

Capsicum is a potent pepper that has a compound in it called the capsaicin. This plays a vital role in decreasing hardened arteries. It helps to prevent blood pressure, obesity, and stroke risk. Red capsicums are full of lycopene, not found in green capsicums. Benefits of eating capsicum show that they contain cholesterol-lowering soluble fibre and prevent the formation of blood clots. So bring down your cholesterol levels, especially the LDL by munching on capsicums, say experts.