The reason bell peppers are known as 'miracle drugs'

Also, bell peppers(scientific name isCapsicum annum L.)It also contains many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that provide many health benefits throughout the body.

Support eye health

Bell peppers are an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that benefit eye health through a variety of mechanisms. Lutein and zeaxanthin are major components of the macular pigment of the eye.

Research has shown that daily lutein supplementation can increase macular pigment optical density and improve visual function in patients with signs of early age-related macular degeneration.

Studies also show that getting plenty of lutein, zeaxanthin and other carotenoids may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration over the long term.

Overall, a diet rich in lutein and zeaxanthin is a preventative strategy to reduce the occurrence of age-related macular degeneration. Several fruits and vegetables contain these carotenoids, but bell peppers are particularly high in carotenoids.

Helps prevent anemia

Anemia is a common diagnosis today. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that half of the 1.62 billion cases of anemia worldwide are due to iron deficiency.

Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, which helps transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues. Bell peppers contain an impressive amount of iron and are high in vitamin C, making them a great food to prevent iron deficiency anemia.

One large red bell pepper contains 0.705 milligrams of iron, approximately 4% of the recommended intake for adult women and 9% for adult men.

Fresh bell peppers are a great food for people at risk of anemia, including young children, women of childbearing age, and pregnant women.

Antioxidant support

Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, beta carotene, and other acidic and neutral phenolic compounds. Together, these powerful components help protect the body against oxidative cell damage.

Antioxidants in bell peppers help prevent certain inflammatory conditions, such as certain cancers, heart disease, and neurological diseases.

Interestingly, research shows that yellow bell peppers have the highest antioxidant activity of all varieties. However, any color bell pepper is a great addition to the diet to fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

Reduce arthritis

Bell peppers contain impressive compounds, such as vitamin C and beta-cryptoxanthin, which have been linked to various anti-inflammatory properties. They are also rich in antioxidants, such as quercetin and luteolin.

These powerful nutrients can help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, thereby reducing the severity of symptoms and easing chronic discomfort.

Incorporating bell peppers into a balanced diet will provide beneficial nutrients that can aid in managing arthritis symptoms. However, to achieve maximum pain relief, it is important to include a variety of anti-inflammatory foods and follow your doctor's medical advice.

Risks of eating bell peppers

Bell peppers are generally considered safe for the average healthy adult, but they may cause side effects in some people.

Although extremely rare, some people are allergic to bell peppers. Studies have found that people with pollen allergies may be sensitive to compounds in bell peppers due to cross-allergic reactions.

Consuming large amounts of bell peppers can also cause gas or bloating due to their high fiber content.

Be mindful of your portion sizes and discuss any potential concerns with your doctor or dietitian before incorporating a new food into your diet.

Tips for eating bell peppers

Bell peppers can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes. Consider the following recommendations when incorporating bell peppers into a balanced diet.

To keep bell peppers fresh as long as possible, make sure they are dry before putting them in the refrigerator. Then, place them in a mesh bag or open plastic bag and place them in a low-humidity compartment.

Bell peppers are a great addition to many different dishes. To soften their texture, sauté them in a pan with a low-salt seasoning.

To roast bell peppers, brush them with olive oil and place them directly on the rack. Roast them uncovered until the skin is charred and the flesh is tender. Remove the cooked bell peppers from the heat, wrap them in foil, and let them rest for about 15 minutes.

Alternatively, try roasting bell peppers in the oven by cutting them in half and baking at 425 degrees F until the skins are wrinkled.

Stuffed bell peppers are a great dish for those who want to enjoy this vegetable with other foods, such as meat.

Bell peppers come in many different colors. Green bell peppers are bitter, while yellow, red, orange, and purple peppers are sweet./.

Tung Lam