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
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 | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hormonal Response | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Supports norepinephrine synthesis as cofactor | |
| Inflammation | Lutein | Anti-inflammatory properties; supports immune regulation | |
| Inflammation | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Antioxidant properties; supports anti-inflammatory effects | |
| Inflammation | β-Carotene | Anti-inflammatory properties; supports immune regulation | |
| Neurochemical Balance | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Supports norepinephrine synthesis; transported in brain via SVCT2 | |
| Oxidative Stress | Lutein | Antioxidant properties; scavenges reactive oxygen species and stabilizes cell membranes | |
| Oxidative Stress | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Key water-soluble antioxidant; works within antioxidant network with vitamin E, CoQ10, and polyphenols | |
| Oxidative Stress | β-Carotene | Antioxidant properties; scavenges reactive oxygen species and stabilizes cell membranes | |
| Stress Response | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | Supports stress response through antioxidant and neurochemical effects |
References
- Norepinephrine: Same as dopamine sources + citrus, bell peppers (vitamin C)
- Eat your beans with vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, citrus)