Tag: Paprika nutrition

A single tablespoon of paprika can provide a significant portion of your daily vitamin A needs. This fact alone hints at a deeper truth, suggesting the answer to 'has paprika got any health benefits?' is a resounding yes, revealing a nutrient profile far more impressive than its role as a simple garnish.

Originating from the Americas, paprika is a staple spice worldwide, with a single tablespoon contributing nearly 20% of your daily vitamin A needs. So, what does paprika contain beyond its vibrant color, and how do its components influence health and flavor?

While commonly added in small amounts for flavor and color, paprika is primarily composed of carbohydrates, with a smaller but significant percentage of lipids (fats) and proteins. This multifaceted nutritional profile, derived from ground dried peppers, makes it more complex than just a simple seasoning.

According to nutritional data, a single tablespoon of paprika contains approximately 3.85 grams of total carbohydrates and 2.58 grams of fiber, resulting in a low net carb count. This makes paprika not only allowed on the keto diet but a versatile and flavorful addition to many low-carb meals.

According to the USDA, a single teaspoon of paprika contains just over 1 gram of carbohydrates. This brings into question for many low-carb and ketogenic dieters: is paprika a low carb food? The answer, while generally yes, depends heavily on how you use it and in what quantity.

According to one source, the ground spice paprika can contain even more vitamin C by weight than citrus fruits, a fact famously discovered by Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent-Györgyi. Beyond its iconic color and smoky or sweet flavor, this means knowing what is paprika good for involves understanding its rich nutritional profile, from robust antioxidant content to key vitamins and minerals.