15 Bell Pepper Calories And Nutrition Facts

Bell peppers are low in calories and high in nutrients. Here is the nutritional composition of one medium-sized bell pepper (approximately 119 grams):

• Calories: 24
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Vitamin C: 150% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin A: 11% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin B6: 11% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin K: 7% of the daily recommended intake
• Potassium: 6% of the daily recommended intake
• Folate: 5% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin E: 4% of the daily recommended intake

Bell peppers are also a good source of antioxidants, particularly carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lutein. They are also rich in water, which makes them hydrating. Additionally, bell peppers are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people following low-carb or diabetic diets.

When it comes to carbohydrates, bell peppers are relatively low in comparison to other vegetables, but it is still the most prominent nutritional component in the fruit. One medium-sized bell pepper contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates. These carbs primarily come in the form of dietary fiber and simple sugars.

Bell peppers contain a small amount of simple sugars. These sugars contribute to the natural sweetness of the pepper. Simple sugars like glucose, fructose and some starch can be found in low amounts.

Even though the amount of fiber in bell peppers in comparatively lower than other vegetables and fruits, dietary fibers are still important in our daily diet. Fiber found in bell peppers can aid in weight management. These compounds tend to be more filling, which can help reduce overall calorie intake and prevent overeating.

It also adds bulk to the stool, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.

Although bell peppers are not considered a high-protein food compared to animal sources, they still provide a decent amount. On average, a medium-sized bell pepper contains around 1 gram of protein. While this may not seem like much, it can contribute to your daily protein needs, especially if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Protein is crucial for the growth, repair, and maintenance of our body's tissues. It is also involved in various physiological processes, such as enzyme production, hormone synthesis, and immune function.

Even though they are low in protein and fiber, they are actually a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect our cells from oxidative stress caused by harmful molecules called free radicals.

The antioxidants in bell peppers are vitamins C and E, as well as beta-carotene and lutein. All of these compounds perform certain functions to protect our bodies. The combination of these antioxidants in bell peppers makes them a valuable addition to any diet.

Fats are an essential part of a balanced diet, as they provide energy and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. However, bell peppers contain only trace amounts of fat, making them a virtually fat-free food. A medium-sized bell pepper contains less than 1 gram of fat, with most of it being healthy polyunsaturated fats.

The lack of fat in bell peppers allows the body to focus on utilizing other nutrients present in these vegetables.

First and foremost, bell peppers are an excellent source of potassium. This mineral helps regulate blood pressure, balance fluids in the body, and support proper muscle and nerve function. Additionally, bell peppers contain magnesium, which aids in energy production, bone health, and muscle relaxation.

They are rich in manganese, a mineral that acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting our cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Bell peppers also provide a significant amount of copper and other minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium.

One prominent group of plant compounds found in bell peppers is carotenoids. These pigments give bell peppers their vibrant colors, ranging from green to yellow, orange, and red. Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and lutein, act as antioxidants in the body.

Bell peppers contain flavonoids, another class of plant compounds with powerful antioxidant properties. Quercetin, a flavonoid present in bell peppers, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Other plant compounds found in the fruit include capsanthin, violaxanthin and lutein.

On average, a medium-sized bell pepper contains about 30-40 calories. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. However, the low-calorie content doesn't indicate the nutritional composition of the fruit.

Bell peppers are an excellent source of several nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, folate and fiber, all of which support the well beings of human beings. It is thus important to incorporate nutrients in our diet to obtain a balanced meal.

Bell peppers are made up of approximately 92% water, which makes them an excellent choice for staying hydrated. Consuming bell peppers can be an effective way to replenish fluids lost through sweating, especially during hot summer months or intense physical activities. Their natural water content helps to quench thirst and prevent dehydration.

To retain their moisture content, you can enjoy them raw in salads, sliced for a healthy snack, or cooked in stir-fries, soups, or stuffed with your favorite fillings.

As a result of the nutritional composition of the fruit, it boots the metabolism by supporting the proper functioning of several organs and systems in the body. Another important factor in supporting the proper functioning of the body is the water content. Since these fruits are made mostly of water, it prevents blood thickening, helps maintain the solute concentration in the body and also facilitates the transfer of neurotransmitters.

The low concentration of capsaicin increases thermogenesis. It is the process by which the body produces heat and burns calories.

A single red bell pepper can provide up to 190% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, while a green pepper offers only around 88%. This significant difference is due to the fact that red bell peppers are fully ripened, allowing them to accumulate higher levels of vitamin C.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient for our body. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Additionally, vitamin C aids in collagen production, which is vital for healthy skin, bones, and blood vessels.

Bell peppers pack a nutritional punch, particularly when it comes to Vitamin A. These colorful vegetables, available in various hues such as red, green, orange, and yellow, are an excellent source of this essential nutrient.

One medium-sized red bell pepper contains around 92% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin A. This makes it a fantastic choice for boosting your vitamin levels and reaping the associated health benefits. The red bell peppers are actually rich in a form of Vitamin A known as beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a precursor to Vitamin A, which can be converted into the active form in the body.

While both green and red bell peppers belong to the same species, the difference in their ripeness accounts for the variation in taste. Red bell peppers are sweeter than green ones due to their maturity and higher sugar content.

When bell peppers are initially harvested, they are green and slightly bitter. As they ripen, the green peppers gradually turn into red or yellow, and their flavor profile evolves as well. The sweetness in red bell peppers intensifies as the natural sugars within the fruit fully develop. This transformation occurs as the peppers mature, absorbing more nutrients and converting starches into sugars.

Capsaicin is a compound found in the seeds and membranes of hot peppers, responsible for the burning sensation when consumed. In contrast, bell peppers do not have this compound, which makes them mild and sweet in flavor.

The absence of capsaicin in bell peppers allows them to be enjoyed by those who are sensitive to spicy foods or have a low tolerance for heat. This mildness also makes bell peppers a versatile ingredient in cooking, as they can be used in various dishes without overwhelming the taste buds.

Now that we have understood the nutritional significance of the fruit, here are certain health benefits associated with the plant:

1. Supports Eye Health
2. Anti-inflammatory Properties
3. Promotes Digestive Health
4. Supports Weight Loss
5. Boosts Heart Health
6. Prevents Anemia
7. Relieves Arthritis
8. Reduces Risk of Diabetes
9. Detoxifying Properties
10. Supports the Immune System