Bell Peppers
Overview
Bell peppers provide very high vitamin C content, enhancing non-heme iron absorption and supporting norepinephrine synthesis. Eating beans with vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, citrus) improves iron bioavailability.
Recipes
1 recipe containing this food
Black Bean & Sweet Potato Vegetable Chilli
A fibre-rich bean and vegetable chilli with warming spices and slow carbohydrates for steady energy and satiety.
Substances
2 substances in this food
Lutein
Neuroprotective carotenoid; accumulates in neural tissues and retina; supports cognitive performance
Vitamin C (Ascorbate)
Antioxidant; supports iron absorption; neuronal SVCT2 transport
Preparation Notes
- Pair with iron-rich plant meals to enhance absorption
- Can be consumed raw or cooked
- Part of food synergy strategy
- Supports iron sufficiency
Biological Target Matrix
| Biological Target | Substance | Contribution Level | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inflammation & Oxidative Stress | Lutein | Contextual / minor contributor | Anti-inflammatory properties; supports immune regulation | |
| Inflammation & Oxidative Stress | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Contextual / minor contributor | Antioxidant properties; supports anti-inflammatory effects | |
| Inflammation & Oxidative Stress | β-Carotene | Contextual / minor contributor | Anti-inflammatory properties; supports immune regulation | |
| Metabolic & Neuroendocrine Stress (HPA Axis & ANS) | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Contextual / minor contributor | Supports stress response through antioxidant and neurochemical effects | |
| Neurotransmitter Regulation | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Contextual / minor contributor | Supports norepinephrine synthesis; transported in brain via SVCT2 |
References
- Norepinephrine: Same as dopamine sources + citrus, bell peppers (vitamin C)
- Eat your beans with vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, citrus)