**2. Micronutrient deficiency in humans**

Some studies reveal the importance of micronutrients in pregnant women and generally given as supplements, which include vitamins, viz., A, cobalamin, pyridoxine, C, D, and E, iron, zinc, iodine, copper, and selenium. Micronutrient deficiencies may mimic radiation or some chemicals which damage the nucleic acids and lead to cancer [11]. Some studies reveal that these deficiencies are related with the danger of HIV infection progression and deaths [12]. Deficiency of vitamin A may cause low serum level of retinol which affects nearly 15% of pregnant women and which leads to night blindness in 8% of them [4]. The reduced form of vitamin C [ascorbic acid (AA)] is the principal chemical structure that appears as an important micronutrient that involves in various physiological functions. Ascorbic acid plays a vital role in reducing the antioxidants and enhances the production of ROS to prevent cancer [13]. Vitamin D is generally known as fat-soluble compound with antiproliferative effect and also involved in the development of bone and immune system [14]. Some studies reported that vitamin D metabolites help in protection against cancer [15].

Vitamin E deficiency can lead to enhanced peroxidation which leads to symptoms like walking difficulties and severe development of speech, reduced fat absorption syndrome, and lipoprotein abnormalities [16]. Deficiencies of iron may affect the growth and mental development and also decreases the capability to do physical work [3]. Some studies reported that the supplementation of zinc along with other micronutrients can reduce the severity of diarrhea diseases and respiratory infections [17]. These deficiencies occur in individuals who do not consume food that provides micronutrients sufficiently like fortified foods, fruits, and animal products. This is usually due to its excessive cost or may domestically unreachable. Among the various vegetables available, chili (*Capsicum annuum*), which are available to common man at affordable price and provide various vitamins like E, C, B6, B12, and provitamin A and some minerals, possibly will give rise to significantly enhanced nutrition [8].
