Peppers known in Latin as Capsicum annuum are members of the Solanaceae family. Other members of this family are tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant. They come in green, red, yellow, orange and purple. They are very popular for cooking and also have many health benefits. Peppers come as hot, and as sweet. Since there is so much information on peppers, I am making this a 2 part series. This week I'll discuss sweet peppers and next week hot peppers.

Peppers including bell peppers originated in Central and South America.They were given the name pepper by the Spanish explorers. In modern times they are also grown in China, Asia and North America and have been incorporated into cuisines all over the world. 

Although peppers are known for their culinary uses, they are also have many health promoting properties. They are rich in vitamins C, B6, and E,  an abundance of carotenoids, and folic acid. They contain fiber which is good for digestion.. They have flavonoids like luteolin, quercetin and zeaxanthin. Peppers have minerals like iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, magnesium and manganese. The sulphur and lycopene in them have the potential to prevent cancer. Peppers also help prevent type 2 diabetes. They are good for your eyes with lutein and zeaxanthin and protect against macular degeneration.

Bell peppers are high in nutrition and low in calories, which makes them an excellent food choice for folks who are watching their weight. They can be served cut up with ranch dressing, hummus or your favorite dip. They have a crunchiness to them that is better than chips and they are healthier. Sweet peppers are an all round good choice when it comes to food. 

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com  My book  Ten healthy teas, is available at a discount from www.outskirtspress.com/bookstore Go to the link and check it out.

Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
lullval@clearwire.net