by
Stepy —
September 24, 2018
- Paprika is a hot spice, much like cayenne pepper. It is made by grinding hot capsicum peppers into a fine powder.
- Let’s look at the health benefits of paprika.
- Anti-inflammatory:
- One of paprikas most potent properties is its ability as an anti-inflammatory agent. It is believed that the hotter the pepper, the stronger the anti-inflammatory properties. Paprika contains an ingredient called capsaicin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant rich:
- Paprika is rich in vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin E. These vitamins work as antioxidants, protecting the cells from the effects of oxidative stress. Dr. Andrew Weil defines oxidative stress as, “the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- Eye health:
- Paprika is packed with carotenoids, which is what gives it a red color. Compounds such as lutein and zeaxanthin help filter harmful sun rays from your eyes, preventing eye damage and diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Iron:
- Paprika is a good source of iron, providing 1.6mg per tablespoon, which is 9% of the recommended daily value. Iron is also essential for creating hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout our body. Iron deficiency leads to fatigue and low energy.
- Pain reliever:
- Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, capsaicin is an effective pain reliever when applied externally. Ointments made with capsaicin can help with headaches, psoriasis, and arthritis pains.
- Vitamin A:
- Paprika is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing 71% of the recommended daily value in just one tablespoon. Vitamin A is essential to our organs. According to the National Institutes of Health, “Vitamin A supports cell growth and differentiation, playing a critical role in the normal formation and maintenance of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs.”
- For the health benefits of cayenne pepper.
- Lose weight with spices.
- For 3 spices that lower blood sugar.
- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Spices, Paprika.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 19 Dec. 2013.
- 2. “Vitamin A.” Office of Dietary Supplements. National Institutes for Health, n.d. Web. 18 Dec. 2013.
