Capsicums, also known as peppers, are vegetables that originated in South America and date back to 5000 BC.

The different coloured capsicum come from the same plant but have different levels of maturity.

Green capsicums are harvested before they are fully ripe. They are less ripe versions of the yellow and red ones. They have a crunchy texture and are slightly bitter.

Yellow capsicums are more mature than green ones and have a fruiter taste whereas the red ones are the most mature and are usually sweeter.

Ideal growing conditions for capsicums include a sunny position with warm soil. Photo: Getty

What colour capsicum is most nutritious?

Red ones are most nutritious as they are rich in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients is a substance that is found in certain plants. They are believed to be beneficial to an individuals health and help prevent various diseases.

The red vegetable also contains almost 11 times more beta-carotene than green ones and have one and a half more times vitamin C.

What nutrients do green, yellow and red capsicums have?

Qualified practicing nutritionist Tracie Connor believes that all capsicums provide essential vitamins, minerals and fibres.

Red are high in vitamins A, C manganese and fibre. Yellow are high in vitamins A, C, and B6, potassium and fibre. Green are high in vitamins A, C and E, iron and zinc

“These nutrients primarily support immunity and digestion, promote eye, skin, teeth, joint and bone health as well as assist with lowering blood pressure,” Ms Connor said.

Are there any downsides to eating them?

Although the vegetable is usually filled with nutrition, Ms Connor said “some people may experience digestive issues when eating capsicums”.

“They’re a high salicylate food and the green capsicums are high in FODMAP,” she said.

FODMAP’s are short chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. They can cause stomach discomfort in some people.

Other than this, there are no other reported downsides to eating the vegetable.