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Yellow capsicum refers to the yellow-colored “bell” peppers from the Capsicum annuum family; a botanical genus comprised of numerous species of chili peppers.
Yellow capsicum is a source of several important nutrients as well as well as minerals, vitamins, fiber and protein. These peppers also contain beneficial plant chemicals including carotenoids like beta-carotene and antioxidants like lycopene.
The health benefits of consuming yellow peppers are purported to include support for immune function, anti-inflammatory effects, protecting against free radical damage and more.
Compared to other varieties of Capsicum peppers, yellow bell peppers have lower concentrations of capsaicin and are not as spicy. Many of the positive effects linked to capsicum are attributed to the physiological effects of capsaicin.
However, the yellow variety contains more Vitamin C and lycopene which are associated with eye health, youthful skin and support healthy aging.
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The pigment that gives yellow, orange and red bell peppers their colors is called beta-carotene. The yellow capsicum pepper starts out green and turn yellow as it matures.
Inside the body, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A, which is why it is sometimes called pro-vitamin A.
Vitamin A (Retinol) is known to be important for maintaining healthy eyes and good vision. This vitamin is also needed for supporting immunity and maintaining healthy mucous membranes and skin. [1]
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that consuming at least four servings of foods rich in beta-carotene every day can help to prevent cancer and heart disease. [1]
Beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant that helps the cells to resist and repair damage caused by oxidative stress. Accumulations of free radicals like superoxide, environmental pollutants like pesticides, tobacco smoke, prescription drugs and other toxins all contribute to oxidative stress
Over time, the damage from oxidative stress can contribute to the development of numerous adverse health conditions. Clinical data suggests that increasing dietary intake of antioxidant foods may improve immune system strength, protects cells and decreases risk factors for cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
There have not been many research studies examining the health benefits of yellow capsicum peppers. Most research on capsicum peppers has focused on the effects of capsaicin, which is an alkamide compound that has been shown to improve pain symptoms, circulation, digestion and metabolism.
This is the compound that makes peppers spicy to taste. The yellow pepper is very mild and does not contain significant amounts of this compound.
Because of the wide array of other phytonutrients found in yellow bell peppers, there are many health benefits attributed to these peppers. Some of these benefits are examined below.
Benefits of Vitamin C
Yellow capsicum peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C. Also called L-ascorbic acid, vitamin C is an important antioxidant in the body. Some of the functions and effects associated with this vitamin include:
- Maintaining healthy bones, gums and teeth;
- Preventing and controlling infections;
- Keeping blood vessels healthy;
- Involved in healing wounds;
- Enhances intestinal absorption of other nutrients;
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database states many uses for vitamin C supplements. These include preventing scurvy, treating depression, lowering LDL cholesterol and improving infertility. [2]
Benefits of Lycopene
Yellow capsicum is one of the best sources of a potent antioxidant called lycopene. Research has suggested that increasing your intake of lycopene can reduce risks for developing heart disease and prostate cancer.
The concentration of lycopene and certain other nutrients in yellow capsicum increases when these peppers are cooked lightly. Sautéing or steaming this fruit causes more lycopene to be released.
NMCD states that increasing lycopene consumption can have the following benefits: [3]
- Improving resistance to HPV (human papillomavirus) infection;
- BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia);
- Preventing atherosclerosis (clogged arteries);
- Supporting cardiovascular health;
- Prostate cancer;
- Reducing risk factors for certain forms of cancer;
Lycopene is also commonly used to improve cataracts, asthma and for cognitive health.
The FDA has not approved the use of Lycopene supplements as a drug for the prevention or treatment of any health conditions. More research is needed to evaluate therapeutic effects.
Benefits of Zeaxanthin and Lutein
Yellow capsicum peppers are also a source of two other carotenoids: zeaxanthin and lutein. Both of these substances are believed to help protect the retina from oxidative damage and from exposure to intense light rays.
Routine consumption of these peppers in your diet may help to prevent and/or improve age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Research suggests that carotenoids work by dying the retina’s macula yellow. This protects the eye by acting as “natural sunglasses” to minimize the retina’s exposure to damaging UV rays. [2]
Yellow Capsicum Side Effects
Yellow capsicum peppers are generally well tolerated and have few known side effects. Unlike other varieties of hot chili pepper that contain higher amounts of capsaicin, this pepper does not typically cause digestive discomfort or flatulence.
Besides a low risk of rare allergic reactions in sensitive people, there are not any permanent or serious side effects associated with yellow capsicum peppers. The FDA considers yellow bell peppers GRAS foods, which means they are “generally regarded as safe”.
While there has not been much research into the health benefits of yellow capsicum peppers, this fruit has a diverse nutritional profile and contains many phytonutrients that are associated with positive effects.
If you are interested in using yellow capsicum extract to address a specific health concern or goal, it is recommended to talk to your doctor to determine the appropriate solution for your needs.
Article last updated on: July 8th, 2018 by Nootriment