Paprika Powder and Gut Health

Paprika powder is a popular spice made from dried and ground bell peppers or mild chili peppers. It adds color and flavor to many dishes, but its effects on gut health can vary depending on individual sensitivities and preparation.

Paprika Powder
  • Paprika powder is low in FODMAPs and generally tolerated in small amounts
  • May cause symptoms in people with histamine intolerance or nightshade sensitivity
  • Contains both soluble and insoluble fibers, supporting gut health
  • Naturally high in salicylates and moderate in nickel, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals
  • Rarely causes allergies, but cross-reactions are possible

Paprika Powder and FODMAP

Paprika powder is considered low in FODMAPs, making it suitable for most people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or those following a low-FODMAP diet. Typical culinary amounts used in recipes are unlikely to trigger FODMAP-related symptoms. However, very large quantities are uncommon and not recommended for sensitive individuals.

Paprika Powder - FODMAP Profile
FODMAPs Level Portion Guidance
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low
Disaccharides (Lactose)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low
Polyols (Mannitol)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low
Polyols (Sorbitol)
Low
  • ≤ 10 g = Low
  • > 10 g = Low

Histamine and Biogenic Amines in Paprika Powder

Paprika powder may contain low to moderate levels of histamine and other biogenic amines, such as tyramine, due to the drying and aging process. Some people with histamine intolerance may experience symptoms after consuming paprika powder, even though it is not a strong histamine liberator. Individual tolerance varies, so caution is advised for those with histamine-related gut issues.

Paprika Powder — Histamine Profile
Histamine & Related Level Portion Guidance
Histamine Level
Low–Moderate
  • ≤ 10 g = Low–Moderate
  • > 10 g = Low–Moderate
Other Biogenic Amines
Low–Moderate
  • ≤ 10 g = Low–Moderate
  • > 10 g = Low–Moderate
Histamine Liberator
Low–Moderate
DAO Blocker
Low

Fiber Content in Paprika Powder

Paprika powder is a good source of dietary fiber, containing both soluble and insoluble fibers. These fibers support healthy digestion, feed beneficial gut bacteria, and help regulate bowel movements. While the actual amount consumed per serving is small, regular use can contribute to overall fiber intake when combined with other fiber-rich foods.

Paprika Powder — Fiber Profile

Total Fiber

34.90 g per 100 g
Soluble: 8.00 g per 100 g (22.9%)
Insoluble: 26.90 g per 100 g (77.1%)

Nightshade Family and Gut Sensitivity

Paprika powder is made from bell peppers, which belong to the nightshade family (Capsicum species). Some individuals with sensitivities to nightshades may experience digestive discomfort, bloating, or other symptoms after consuming paprika powder. If you have a known nightshade intolerance, it is best to avoid or limit paprika in your diet.

Salicylates and Paprika Powder

Paprika powder is naturally high in salicylates, a group of plant compounds that can trigger symptoms in sensitive people. Those with salicylate sensitivity may experience gut discomfort, headaches, or skin reactions after consuming paprika. If you are sensitive to salicylates, use paprika powder with caution.

Allergy and Cross-Reactivity

True allergies to paprika powder are rare, but cross-reactions can occur, especially in people sensitive to other nightshades or certain plant allergens. Paprika may also contain compounds that cross-react with balsam of Peru or moderate levels of nickel, which can be relevant for those with contact allergies or nickel sensitivity.

Paprika Powder — Allergy Profile
EU Major Allergens
🌾
Cereals with Gluten
Absent
Details
  • Absent Wheat / Spelt
  • Absent Rye
  • Absent Barley
  • Absent Oats
🦐
Crustaceans
Absent
Details
  • Absent Crabs
  • Absent Prawns
  • Absent Shrimp
  • Absent Lobsters
  • Absent Crayfish
🥚
Eggs
Absent
🐟
Fish
Absent
🥜
Peanuts
Absent
🌱
Soy
Absent
🥛
Milk
Absent
🌰
Tree Nuts
Absent
Details
  • Absent Almonds
  • Absent Brazil Nuts
  • Absent Cashews
  • Absent Hazelnuts
  • Absent Macadamia Nuts
  • Absent Pecans
  • Absent Pistachios
  • Absent Walnuts
🍃
Celery
Absent
🧂
Mustard
Absent
🧈
Sesame
Absent
🧪
Sulphur Dioxide & Sulphites
Absent
🌼
Lupin
Absent
🐚
Molluscs
Absent
Details
  • Absent Clams
  • Absent Mussels
  • Absent Octopus
  • Absent Oysters
  • Absent Snails
  • Absent Squid
Other Allergens
🥥
Coconut
Absent
🍯
Honey
Absent
🧫
Yeast
Absent

Frequently Asked Questions About Paprika Powder and Gut Health

Is paprika powder low in FODMAPs?

Yes, paprika powder is low in FODMAPs and generally safe for IBS and low-FODMAP diets.

Can paprika powder cause problems for people with histamine intolerance?

Paprika powder may contain low to moderate histamine and can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Does paprika powder provide dietary fiber?

Yes, it contains both soluble and insoluble fibers, though serving sizes are usually small.

Is paprika powder a nightshade and can it cause gut issues?

Paprika powder is a nightshade and may cause symptoms in those with nightshade sensitivity.

Is paprika powder high in salicylates?

Yes, paprika powder is high in salicylates and may not be suitable for people with salicylate sensitivity.

Can you be allergic to paprika powder?

Allergies are rare, but cross-reactions with other plant allergens or nickel are possible.