Pepperoncini, or sweet Italian peppers, are a slightly sweet, salty pepper often used to garnish salads. The heat of a pepperoncini ranges between low and medium. They are usually 2 to 3 inches long and are found in grocery stores fresh or pickled. Members of the pepper family contain vitamins, minerals and compounds that increase metabolism -- and pepperoncini are no exception.
Macronutrients
Of the three marconutrients, pepperoncini provide only carbohydrates. They do not contain any fat or protein. A three-pepper serving contains 10 calories, coming from 2 g carbs, according to LIVESTRONG.com's MyPlate. Although they are relatively low calorie, pepperoncini are high in sodium so they should only be eaten in moderation. One serving provides 600 mg, or 25 percent of the daily value for a 2,000 calorie diet.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the compound in peppers that give them their heat. According to registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, capsaicin acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and reduces risk of heart disease. Capsaicin also has metabolic effects similar to caffeine or Ephedra, without the cardiovascular side effects. Powdered capsaicin extract is often added to vitamins and supplements to increase energy and burn calories. The most promising benefit of capsaicin is its ability to stop cancer cell replication, although research is still being conducted on this matter, according to "Medill Reports Chicago."
Vitamins
The vitamin profile of pepperoncini is very similar to green bell peppers, according to Jeremy Warner, M.D. One serving of pepperoncini provides approximately 200 percent of the daily value of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in the function of your immune system and the formation of collagen. Pepperoncini also provide 11 percent of the daily value of vitamin A, a fat soluble vitamin that helps maintain eyesight.
Minerals
Members of the genus Capsicum, like pepperoncini, are good sources of potassium. Potassium plays an important role in fluid regulation throughout the entire body, which is necessary for everything from nerve signal transmission to muscle contraction to heart function, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Not getting enough potassium in your diet can lead to muscle cramps and electrolyte imbalances. People with high amounts of potassium in their diets also have lower blood pressure and are at lower risk of having a stroke.
References
- LIVESTRONG.com MyPlate: Calories in Pepperoncini Peppers
- "Medill Reports Chicago"; Peppers are Hot -- As a Health and Diet Aid; Darren Swan; October 2, 2007
- Basic Eating: Bell Peppers and Pepperoncini
- American Institute for Cancer Research: Some Like It Hot
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Potassium
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