Red chili pepper

Red chili pepper

Vegetable

Item Rating: 78/100

1 serving (45 grams) contains 18 calories, 0.8 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, and 4.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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96
calories
4.3
protein
21.3
carbohydrates
1.1
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (240g)
Calories
96
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 1.1 g 1%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 37.3 mg 1%
Total Carbohydrates 21.3 g 7%
Dietary Fiber 8.0 g 28%
Sugars 12.8 g
protein 4.3 g 8%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 32.0 mg 2%
Iron 1.6 mg 8%
Potassium 1717.3 mg 36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

75.9%
15.3%
8.8%
Fat: 9 cal (8.8%)
Protein: 17 cal (15.3%)
Carbs: 85 cal (75.9%)

About Red chili pepper

Red chili peppers, native to Central and South America, are widely used in global cuisines, especially in Asian, Mexican, and Indian dishes, for their spicy kick. They belong to the Capsicum family and contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat. Nutritionally, red chili peppers are low in calories while being rich in vitamins A, C, and B6. They also provide small amounts of iron, potassium, and magnesium. With their antioxidant content, chili peppers are known to enhance flavor as well as provide potential health benefits.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamin C, red chili peppers support immune health by boosting collagen production and acting as an antioxidant.
  • High levels of capsaicin may enhance metabolism by increasing fat oxidation and supporting energy expenditure.
  • Vitamin A in red chili peppers promotes healthy skin and vision by supporting cellular repair and maintaining the ocular surface.
  • Contains antioxidants, such as carotenoids, which help protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Capsaicin also may provide anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially aiding in pain relief and reducing inflammation-related conditions.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, paleo
Not suitable for: Low-spice diets, capsaicin-sensitive individuals

Selection and Storage

Store fresh red chili peppers in a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. For extended storage, freeze whole or chopped peppers in airtight containers.

Common Questions About Red chili pepper Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of red chili peppers?

Red chili peppers are low in calories, with approximately 18-20 calories per 100 grams. They contain about 0.9 grams of protein per 100 grams and are rich in vitamin C (107% of the daily recommended intake per 100 grams), as well as vitamin A, potassium, and iron. They are also high in antioxidants like capsaicin, which provides their spicy kick.

Are red chili peppers compatible with a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes, red chili peppers are keto-friendly and compatible with low-carb diets. They contain about 4 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, with 2 grams from dietary fiber, making them a low-carb vegetable option. They also add flavor without relying on sugary condiments or high-carb ingredients.

What are the health benefits and concerns associated with red chili peppers?

Red chili peppers are known for their high antioxidant content, particularly capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism, reduce pain, and improve heart health. However, excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, especially for those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs, and should be consumed in moderation.

What is a recommended portion size for red chili peppers?

For most people, a portion size of 1-2 whole red chili peppers (approximately 10-20 grams) is enough to add significant heat and flavor to dishes. If you're new to spicy foods, start with smaller amounts and adjust according to your taste tolerance.

How do red chili peppers compare to green chili peppers in terms of nutrition and flavor?

Red chili peppers are generally sweeter and slightly less pungent than green chili peppers, as they are fully ripened. In terms of nutrition, red chili peppers have higher levels of vitamin A and antioxidants like beta-carotene compared to green chili peppers. Both varieties, however, are similarly low in calories and carbohydrates.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Dietary Supplements Fact Sheet: Vitamin C
    NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
    Includes information on Vitamin C, a key nutrient abundant in red chili peppers, and its roles in human health.
  2. Capsaicin, a component of chili pepper: Metabolism and bioavailability study
    American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
    Discusses capsaicin, the active compound in red chili peppers, and its health-related effects and metabolism in humans.
  3. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
    U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
    Highlights red chili peppers as part of vegetable consumption recommendations in the federal dietary guidelines for healthy eating.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.