Paprika is a spice extracted from the dried peppers of the plant Capsicum annuum. It comes in a wide variety of flavors, including sweet, smoked, and hot.
Paprika is also a popular supplement ingredient because it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Benefits
1. Highly Nutritious
Paprika is packed with beneficial compounds and micronutrients, as a single tablespoon (6.8 grams) of this spice contains:
- 19 calories
- 2 grams of fiber
- 4 grams of carbohydrates
- A little less than 1 gram of fat
- A little less than 1 gram of protein
- 19% of the DRI (Daily Recommended Intake) of vitamin A
- 8% of the DRI of iron
- 13% of the DRI of vitamin E
- 9% of the DRI of vitamin B6
Furthermore, this spice is loaded with healthy antioxidants that protect your body against free radicals (reactive molecules that harm our bodies).
Paprika packs antioxidants that belong to the carotenoid family, including lutein, capsanthin, zeaxanthin, and beta carotene.
2. May Aid Healthy Vision
Paprika is loaded with several nutrients that are believed to boost eye health, including lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin E, and beta carotene. (1)
As a matter of fact, these nutrients are directly linked to a decreased risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). (2)
Among these nutrients, lutein and zeaxanthin are the most beneficial for eye health.
According to this study conducted on over 1,800 women, those who consumed the highest amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin were 32% less likely to develop cataracts as compared to those with the lowest intakes.
Another study conducted on 4,519 adults found out similar results: participants with the highest intake of lutein and zeaxanthin faced a lower risk of suffering from AMD.
3. May Reduce Inflammation
Certain varieties of paprika contain a compound called capsaicin, which is believed to reduce inflammation by binding itself to receptors of your nerve cells.
Multiple studies suggest that capsaicin protects our bodies against several inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including arthritis, nerve damage, and digestive tissues.
According to this study conducted on 376 adults with gastrointestinal diseases, capsaicin supplements help prevent digestive damage and inflammation.
Furthermore, another study conducted on rats concludes that taking capsaicin supplements for 10 days reduced inflammation associated with an autoimmune condition.
Health Issues Associated With Paprika Deficiency
People who don’t ingest paprika face an increased risk of suffering from:
- High cholesterol
- Certain types of cancer
- Certain types of diabetes
- Certain eye issues, including AMD and cataracts
- Certain stomach issues, including inflammation
If you want to stay clear of these health issues, then add a paprika supplement to your diet.
Daily Recommended Intake
An ideal dose of paprika is individual-based. It is determined by the following factors:
- Individual’s age
- Individual’s health
- The condition the individual is trying to treat
Currently, more research is required because there isn’t enough scientific data to determine the daily recommended intake of paprika for the average individual.
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