Sweet pepper, also known as bell pepper, capsicum or paprika, is a popular vegetable that is widely used around the world.
Sweet pepper (lat. Capsicum annuum) comes from South America and Mexico, a member of the nightshade family, along with tomatoes, potatoes and other vegetables, UAINFO.org informs with reference to Espresso.TV.
It has a smooth skin, sweet and refreshing taste. This pepper, unlike chili or jalapeño, does not contain capsaicin, which is responsible for spiciness. Bell peppers can be red, yellow, green, or even orange or purple. It is used in salads, soups, stir-fries, smoothies, sauces, or as a filling for pies or sandwiches. It is really loved by adults and children, but what does this interesting vegetable hide?
What substances are contained in sweet pepper
Bell pepper is a really useful product, rich in various useful substances. Its nutritional value is only 35 calories per 100 g of product and it consists of 92% water. It contains 21% of the daily norm of vitamin A, 169% of vitamin C, 20% of vitamin B6 and much more, according to the Nutrition Facts Search Tool.
Vitamins. Sweet peppers, especially the red and yellow varieties, contain significant amounts of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. They are rich in vitamin A, B6, K and folic acid.
Contains various minerals, mainly potassium and magnesium, which are necessary to maintain the normal functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system. However, Copper, Manganese, Zinc, Iron and Phosphorus are also present in small amounts.
Active substances in bell peppers, such as carotenoids, can help fight inflammation and pain.
Therefore, it is important to include pepper in a variety of diets, it is preferable to eat it raw to get maximum health benefits with minimal calories.
What is the use of pepper?
Since sweet pepper has a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, it can have a positive effect on various body systems, as well as be useful in preventing certain diseases.
Reduces the risk of developing anemia
Anemia is a disease in which the body has a reduced number of red blood cells or hemoglobin, which is contained in these cells. Red blood cells (erythrocytes) and hemoglobin are responsible for carrying oxygen to body tissues. A decrease in their number in the body leads to oxygen starvation of organs and tissues.
Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from plant food sources such as grains. That is, it helps iron to change into a more accessible form for the body. This is important because iron is an essential mineral for the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, a deficiency of which can cause anemia.
Bell pepper is a source of iron (although not in significant quantities), which is directly necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin.
Folic acid (vitamin B9) plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of a normal level of hemoglobin in the body. It is necessary for the formation of new erythrocytes in the bone marrow.
Useful for memory and vision
Sweet pepper contains carotenoids, in particular beta-carotene, which has a beneficial effect on visual and cognitive function. Studies have shown that antioxidants and carotenoids can help reduce the risk of developing diseases related to the deterioration of brain function, such as dementia (Alzheimer's disease).
Other substances contained in pepper - phenols and flavonoids - have a positive effect on the human brain.
Prevents diseases
Bell peppers can be useful in protecting the body against chronic diseases due to their antioxidant and vitamin content. In a complex, these substances can help reduce inflammatory processes and protect cells from oxidation.
Antioxidants help fight stress and harmful free radicals in the body that cause chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Vitamin C, in particular, improves the immune system, reduces the risk of colds and other infections.
How to store pepper in winter
Of course, pepper can be eaten raw, or you can cook a variety of dishes - stew, baked pepper, omelets, meat dishes and much more. But in order to enjoy its taste as long as possible, you need to know how to properly store this vegetable.
Of course, the most simple and effective method is storage on the balcony or in the cellar. Choose a cool place on the balcony where the temperature is up to 10°C, preferably around 7°C. This is important, because pepper cannot withstand low temperatures, but it should not be overheated either. Arrange pepper fruits in boxes or containers with ventilation holes for air circulation. This will help to avoid the formation of condensation, which can damage the products. Clean the peppers with a damp towel and dry well. Pack the fruits each in a separate paper bag or newspaper. Do not forget to regularly check the condition of the pepper, remove all fruits that show signs of spoilage or rot
Some advise to wrap the peppers not in paper bags, but in plastic bags, in which holes are made with a toothpick. This will help improve air circulation. Peppers can be stored in the cellar in the same way.
If you do not have space on the balcony, then you can freeze peppers. To do this, clean the vegetables from the stem and seeds, rinse well. You can cut the pepper, or leave it in whole pieces. Transfer to freezer-safe containers or ZIP bags and freeze.
Of course, one should not forget about another method of preserving products - conservation. Peppers make very tasty canned products. There are countless recipes where you will definitely find something to your taste.
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