Red Chili Pepper
Small red chilli pods full of fire and flavour: a cornerstone of Asian and Latin cooking and of the world's hot spices. Its carbohydrate per serving is a tiny number of grams, so a glycemic index does not apply, and it contains some of the highest concentrations of capsaicin and antioxidants.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Finely chop half a pod into tomato sauces, soups and stews; its strong heat breaks the monotony of food and helps you eat your meal slowly and with enjoyment.
Best preparation methods
Cook it early with olive oil and garlic to release its hot oils and spread them evenly through the dish, and wash your hands well with soap and water after cutting it to avoid touching your eyes.
Important Nutritional Note
Chilli is an excellent aid to circulation; it is a healthy spice with no meaningful calories or starch, but people with an irritable bowel or an active stomach ulcer must keep it strictly moderate.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (5 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal | 2 kcal |
| Protein | 1.9 g | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrate | 8.8 g | 0.4 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 7.3 g | 0.4 g |
| Fat | 0.4 g | 0 g |
| Dietary fibre | 1.5 g | 0.1 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 40 kcal per 100 g, ranking 36 of 48 in Vegetables (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Red Chili Pepper good for weight loss?
Yes. Red Chili Pepper is very low in calories (40 kcal per 100 g), so you can eat a generous amount to add volume and fullness to a meal without many calories.
How does Red Chili Pepper affect blood sugar?
Red Chili Pepper contains only 7.3 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Red Chili Pepper?
A typical 5 g portion of Red Chili Pepper provides about 2 kcal, 0.1 g protein, 0.4 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat and 0.1 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.