Do peppers have nutritional value

Yes, peppers are very high in nutritional value. All peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, but yellow, orange, and red peppers have the highest amounts. Antioxidant vitamins A and C help to prevent cell damage, cancer, and diseases related to aging, and they support immune function. They also reduce inflammation, including that found in Arthritis and Asthma. Vitamin K promotes proper blood clotting, strengthens bones, and helps protect cells from oxidative damage. Red peppers are a good source of the carotenoid called lycopene, which helps prevent cancer in the prostate, bladder, cervix, and pancreas. Beta-cryptoxanthin, another carotenoid in red peppers, may help prevent lung cancer. Besides being rich in phytochemicals, peppers are also high in fiber. The heat in hot peppers comes from capsaicin, which acts on pain receptors in our mouths. Capsaicin is especially high in the white membranes and in the seeds. Capsaicin decreases cholesterol and triglycerides, boosts immunity, and helps kill bacteria that can lead to stomach ulcers. Both hot and sweet peppers increase your body's heat production and oxygen consumption, which burns extra calories, for about 20 minutes after you eat them.