Bell peppers are among the fruits bodybuilders love and use a lot. Here is why:
They contain vitamin C which is vital for the growth and repair of body tissues.
Bell peppers may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
They may protect against certain chronic diseases.
Can delay age-related memory loss.
Are good forb their blood-sugar lowering effects.
They are filled with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties due to the vitamin C and vitamin K they contain.
Bell peppers contain over 30 different types of carotenoids including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and lycopene. Carotenoids are a phytonutrient family that is responsible for the bright red, yellow and orange coloring in many fruits and vegetables. Researchers have found that they help heal eyes and ward off eye disease because they absorb damaging blue light entering the eyes.
Bell peppers gain nutritional value when you cook them. Cooking a pepper will break down its cell walls, making the carotenoids inside easier for your body to absorb. However, try to avoid overcooking peppers. Cooking a pepper for too long will remove some of its vitamin C content.
Red peppers pack the most nutrition, because they’ve been on the vine longest. Green peppers are harvested earlier before they have a chance to turn yellow, orange, and then red. Compared to green bell peppers, the red ones have almost 11 times more beta-carotene and 2 times more vitamin C.