Sweet pepper, also known as vegetable, paprika or paprika (Latin Capsicum annuum) is an annual cultivated herbal plant of the Solanaceae family. The homeland is America, where it grows like a weed, requiring virtually no maintenance. Paprika fruits are oblong pods with juicy pulp of a wide variety of shades, from white-yellow to dark red. In our country, almost all varieties with red or orange fruits are called bell peppers.
Bell pepper composition
The main value of pepper is a large amount of vitamin C, its content in the pulp is higher than in lemons or black currants. Many other vitamins are also present: P, group B, provitamin A (carotene). The pulp also contains a lot of valuable mineral elements such as potassium and sodium salts, as well as zinc, iron, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium. The characteristic spicy flavor of bell peppers comes from the alkaloid capsaicin, which is very beneficial for stimulating gastrointestinal activity.
Useful Properties
The rich composition of pepper makes it very beneficial for the heart and the maintenance of immunity. This good hematopoietic product prevents anemic conditions, regulates the level of hemoglobin in the blood, and is useful for strengthening blood vessels. The beneficial properties are especially relevant for diabetics and those who control body weight, since bell peppers, despite their ability to stimulate the appetite, reduce blood sugar levels. Caloric content is about 26 kcal.
The beneficial properties of sweet pepper can hardly be overestimated: the substances contained in it help against insomnia, relieve depressive conditions. And the rutin it contains promotes the improvement of the cardiovascular system and helps prevent the occurrence of thrombosis and atherosclerosis. Inclusion in the diet has a beneficial effect on the condition of hair and skin, and also helps to preserve vision.
With all the many advantages and useful properties of bell pepper, it should be used with caution by people suffering from gastritis, colitis, peptic ulcer, acute diseases of the duodenum.
Food use
Sweet peppers are used for food both independently in fresh form, as part of salads and vegetable dishes, and after heat treatment. Any cuisines of the world include paprika as an essential component of first courses, salads, and a variety of vegetable snacks. Various seasonings and sauces are made from this vegetable, it lends itself well to canning.
