Paprika Overview
Paprika is made from grinding dried bell peppers and chili peppers. Paprika is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin and other nutrients such as vitamin B6, iron among others that help them contribute to the many health benefits that they possess.
Paprika Nutrition
Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 375
- Fat 22 g – 33% RDA
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Sodium 168 mg – 7% RDA
- Potassium 1,788 mg – 51% RDA
- Carbohydrate 44 g – 14% RDA
- Dietary fiber 11 g – 44% RDA
- Sugar 2.3 g
- Protein 18 g – 36% RDA
- Vitamin A 25% RDA
- Vitamin C 12% RDA
- Calcium 93% RDA
- Iron 368% RDA
- Vitamin B-6 20% RDA
- Magnesium 91% RDA
10 Health Benefits of Paprika
1. Skin Care
Paprika is packed with vitamins, iron, and beta-carotene, which prevent the occurrence of freckles and age spots. They improve your complexion by restricting the production of melanin, which is responsible for making the skin darker. Paprika also has antibacterial properties which is effective for the treatment of skin problems.
2. Hair Health
Paprika is a rich source of vitamin B6, which helps in preventing hair loss. Paprika also contains substantial amount of iron, which facilitates the transfer of oxygen to the hair follicles. It stimulates hair growth by improving circulation to the scalp.
3. Lowers Blood Pressure
Paprika contains capsaicin which aids in lowering blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels.
4. Improves Vision
Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy eyesight and basically refers to a group of compounds called carotenoids. Paprika contains four carotenoids namely—beta cryptoxanthin,
beta-carotene, lutein, and zea-xanthin. This vitamin is used by the eyes to turn light into vision. Lutein and zea-xanthin reduce the risk of developing age related macular degeneration and cataracts. It is advisable to combine paprika with a source of fats such as olive oil to fully reap the benefits of carotenoids.
5. Aids in digestion
Paprika aids in digestion by normalizing acid in the stomach. It is a great stimulant, which facilitates digestion by boosting saliva and stomach acids. It can be used to treat indigestion. However, high doses of paprika may interact with other medications, so it is advisable to consult your physician before using paprikVitamin C and E presena for this purpose.
6. Heart Health
Paprika contains Vitamin C and E which are antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of heart disease. It also contains iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, it helps to purify your blood and improve heart health.
7. Wound Healing
Paprika is a good source of vitamin E, which helps in producing red blood cells. It also helps in forming clots in case of cuts and wounds, facilitating quick wound healing.
8. Prevents Anemia
Paprika contains iron which is involved in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin C present in paprika enables the body to absorb iron.
9. Boosts Immunity
Paprika possesses great anti-inflammatory properties and is particularly beneficial for people suffering from autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. It is helpful in relieving swelling caused by arthritis as well as other aches and pains in the body.
Paprika has antibacterial protein that inhibits the growth of certain bacteria such asSalmonella and E.coli that are often transferred through ingestion.
Paprika has vitamin C which help prevent scurvy that is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums, weak teeth, swollen bones, rapid breathing, jaundice, diarrhoea, depression.
10. Aids in Sleep
Paprika has vitamin B6 which has powerful neurological and psychological effects. It contributes to the production of the ‘sleep hormone’ melatonin, helping you maintain a normal sleep cycle. Besides, it boosts your body’s serotonin and norepinephrine levels, both of which enable you to stay happy and stress free.