The Surprising Health Benefits of Peppers

Let’s play a game – what fruit are we thinking of? Here are some clues:

1. They start green while growing, then some change color when ready to pick.

2. They can range in flavor of mild – severe heat or even be sweet.

3. They are a great source of Vitamin C.

If you guessed a pepper, you’re right! Not only are these fruits full of flavor and spice, but they also have a ton of health benefits. Learn more about what the humble pepper can do for you, broken down into sweet or spicy varietals, below.

Sweet (Bell) Peppers Health Benefits

If you’ve ever thought about growing some bell pepper plants in your garden, now’s the time to do it. Sweet peppers are full of nutrients that help support overall health and wellbeing.

Bell peppers are full of vitamins and antioxidants. They’re one of the best sources of Vitamin C and can help reduce the risk of cataracts. The antioxidants also contain phenolic acids that help protect against diabetes, fatty liver, mental decline, and heart disease. Sweet peppers are a great source of Vitamin B6 which can help stabilize your metabolism and even helps keep a strong immune system which can reduce the risk of anemia.

Gut health has become a huge trend in the country, especially on social media. If you want to take care of your own gut health, look no further than fiber-packed bell peppers. Studies show increasing your fiber intake can help reduce the risk of IBD and colon cancer, while also reducing constipation and promoting a healthy bacteria balance in the gut. So next time you need a good source of fiber, snack on some bell peppers and dip.

Hot Peppers Health Benefits

Hot peppers also carry an impressive amount of nutrients and vitamin C like bell peppers, but they also are a great source of provitamin A carotenoids. These carotenoids are essential for the immune system, vision, reproduction, growth, and bone health.

Most hot peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that gives these fruits their characteristic spiciness. Capsaicin is great for pain relief including joint pain, can help improve athletic ability, and even lower blood sugar levels. Research shows capsaicin also has anti-inflammatory benefits which can help with swelling, prevent allergies, and protect again heart disease.

“A substance in jalapenos known as capsaicin may help boost your metabolism slightly – helping with weight loss. According to a June 2008 study in the “Journal of Biological Chemistry,” capsaicin – which gives jalapenos and other peppers their heat – can raise the core body temperature, leading to an increased metabolic rate. While the metabolism-boosting effects of capsaicin are mild, the hot flavor of the peppers can help to squelch your appetite and lead you to eat less at meals.” Livestrong

The best part is, peppers are easy to go with Gardenuity. The Some Like It Hot Garden along with other specialty gardens like the Taco Toppings Garden and Cocktail Garden make growing and harvesting peppers fun.

Whether you’re trying to add peppers to your diet, or you’re already in love, this versatile fruit can help improve your health massively.