Capsanthin is a phytonutrient belonging to the carotenoid family. It is also the compound that gives paprika its red color.

As a carotenoid, capsanthin has antioxidant action and recent studies are investigating capsanthin's use as a cancer preventive agent.

Because capsanthin is lipid-soluble, your body will absorb more if you enjoy foods containing capsanthin with some healthy fat.

References

Molnar P, Kawase M, Satoh K, Sohara Y, Tanaka T, Tani S, Sakagami H, Nakashima H, Motohashi N, Gyemant N, Molnar J.Biological activity of carotenoids in red paprika, Valencia orange and Golden delicious apple.Phytother Res. 2005 Aug;19(8):700-7. Nishino H, Murakosh M, Ii T, Takemura M, Kuchide M, Kanazawa M, Mou XY, Wada S, Masuda M, Ohsaka Y, Yogosawa S, Satomi Y, Jinno K. Carotenoids in cancer chemoprevention.Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2002;21(3-4):257-64.Czeczuga-Semeniuk E, Wolczynski S.Identification of carotenoids in ovarian tissue in women.Oncol Rep. 2005 Nov;14(5):1385-92.