The Heart Health Benefits of Bell Peppers

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The Heart Health Benefits of Bell Peppers: Cardiologist, and  Registered Dietician.
Video transcript

Known as capsicum in some parts of the world, bell peppers are most commonly found in red, yellow, orange or green varieties. The difference in colours are a result of the different antioxidant compounds that are rich in each, which have the capacity to reflect different types of light and thus explain their colouration. Orange peppers, for example, are high in a compound known as beta-carotene – the Vitamin A precursor which also found in rich supply in carrots.

Yellow peppers, are on the other hand, are high in a compound known as lutein which is also present in egg yolks.

Lutein is thought to be uniquely beneficial for vision and eye health. As you can see, bell peppers really encapsulate the age old nutrition adage that “variety is the spice of life”. They are also valuable from the perspective they can be enjoyed with great ease raw owing to their natural crunch and sweetness, which cannot be said of all types of vegetables.

Presenter: Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Cardiologist

97-100 People got two or more of these video questions wrong… ( 125 participated.)

The Health Benefits of Bell Peppers

Questions
 
True
False
1

Bell peppers are not a good source of vitamin C.

Explanation:

Bell peppers are a good source of vitamin C.

2

A nutritionist or registered dietitian can help ensure you’re getting enough nutrients.

3

Foods like peppers are rich in complex carbs and can be great pre-workout snacks.

Explanation:

Complex carbs will slowly release energy during and after a workout. Foods with simple sugars will break down quickly, which can result in fatigue. Look for foods such as multigrain bread, beans, bananas, berries and sweet potatoes.

4

Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants.

Explanation:

The difference in colours are a result of the different antioxidant compounds that are rich in each, which have the capacity to reflect different types of light and thus explain their colouration.

5

An anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce joint pain.

Explanation:

Anti-inflammatory foods include berries, fatty fish, avocadoes and broccoli. They may help reduce joint pain.

6

When managing a chronic condition, peppers could be an excellent choice to help manage health factors that can influence change in your overall health.

Explanation:

Bell peppers also have antioxidant properties, which may help to protect against diseases such as cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Compounds in bell peppers may also help to protect against inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.

7

Do you believe in the concept that food is medicine?

Explanation:

Research shows that dietary habits influence disease risk. While certain foods may trigger chronic health conditions, others offer strong medicinal and protective qualities. Thus, many people argue that food is medicine. Yet, diet alone cannot and should not replace medicine in all circumstances. Do you look at food as if it can be medicine for your disease? If yes would you like more information on this, save the PDF for further conversation with your HCP.

This content is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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