Capsicum fruits are referred to by several names such as chili pepper,
sweet pepper and green or red pepper. The larger fruits which are also
milder are known as bell peppers in some places. Capsicum is also known
as paprika in some areas. Capsicum is known to be beneficial in
alleviating and preventing many illnesses. It contains beta carotene,
vitamin A and vitamin C. It is also low in fat and calories and hence
does not increase the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. Capsicum
benefits are many and hence it must form a vital part of a balanced and
healthy diet. Here is some more information on the health benefits of
capsicum.
Capsaicin is also known to help in restricting the binding of
carcinogens with DNA. Therefore capsicum is believed to help in the
treatment of cancer. Some studies have also shown that regular intake of
capsicum through the diet can protect the body from cancer. Benefits of
capsicum also include prevention of blood clotting and protection from
bacterial infections. Since capsicum contains vitamin C, it has the
ability to prevent and dissolve blood clots. Capsaicin in capsicum helps
to protect from bacterial diseases caused by food-borne bacteria. Red
capsicum benefits are significant as they contain higher amounts of beta
carotene which is converted into vitamin A by the body.
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Capsicum is great for metabolism. The nutrients in these tangy
vegetables lower triglycerides in the fat deposits in blood corpuscles.
This not only burns extra calories, but also energizes the metabolism.
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A rich source of vitamin A and C, capsicum also has antioxidant
properties. These antioxidants combat the free radicals in the body and
treat cardiac diseases, cataract, bronchial asthma and osteoarthritis.
The vegetable prevents the damage that can be rendered on the body by
free radicals, namely, cellular damage and damage to blood vessels and
nerves.
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The same compound, capsaicin is believed to prevent cancer. This
compound prevents carcinogens from mixing with the DNA. Studies and
research also shows that capsicum has cancer-preventing properties.
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Capsicum has blood clotting properties. Vitamin C in capsicum can melt away the blood clots.
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Capsaicin in capsicum can combat food-borne bacteria from affecting the body.
