Bell peppers, also known as sweet peppers or capsicums, are colorful vegetables that brighten up any dish but they’re much more than just decoration. Available in vibrant shades of red, yellow, orange, and green, these crisp vegetables are loaded with nutrients that provide impressive health benefits. Whether eaten raw, roasted, or stir-fried, bell peppers deserve a regular spot on your plate. Here’s why.
1. A Powerful Source of Vitamins and Antioxidants
Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C — in fact, a single medium-sized red bell pepper provides more than 150% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C is crucial for keeping a strong immune system, supporting collagen production, and promoting faster wound healing.
Beyond vitamin C, bell peppers are also high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin E, all of which help keep healthy skin, eyes, and nerves. The bright colors of bell peppers come from powerful antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which protect cells from oxidative stress and slow down the aging process.
2. Great for Eye Health
If you spend long hours staring at screens, bell peppers can be your eyes’ best friend. The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin found in red and yellow peppers help reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), two popular causes of vision loss. These antioxidants act like natural sunglasses, filtering harmful blue light and protecting delicate eye tissues from damage.
3. Supports Heart Health and Blood Pressure
Regular consumption of bell peppers can support a healthy heart. They contain fiber, potassium, and folate, nutrients that help regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. The antioxidants also prevent inflammation in bl00d vessels, enhancing circulation and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Because bell peppers are naturally low in calories and fat-free, they’re perfect for people aiming to keep a heart-healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
