Most people are aware of honey and its many health benefits. Yet, few know about another product from bees called bee pollen. Bee pollen is one of the most recommended superfoods by nutritionists. And though for many this can come as a surprise, it has a high nutritional value as well as a quality of fast supplementing the dietary deficiencies in human bodies. For this reason, pollen is much appreciated as an api therapeutic product by natural medicine. It is used for a wide range of conditions – from prostate health, skin conditions to energy booster.
Bees collect pollen coming from the male seed of flowers in sacs that are attached to their legs. Beekeepers harvest the raw pollen from bees by keeping a thick “comb” in the entrance of their hives. When bees pass through it, it removes the pollen off their legs into a collection container. For one teaspoon of pollen, a bee is working eight hours a day for one month to gather. Also, one teaspoonful contains over 2.5 billion grains of raw flower pollen.
Natural bee pollen is a mixture made by honeybees, consisting of flower pollen, nectar, honey, wax, enzymes, and bee secretions. It is used as the primary food source for the hive. Since bee pollen contains nearly all nutrients required by the human body, many consider it to be nature’s most completely nourishing foods.
Bee-gathered pollens are more loaded in proteins than any animal source. The free amino acids, which are found more than in beef, eggs, or cheese of equal weight, are directly at the body’s disposal for use. Bee pollen also contains eighteen vitamins, including a B complex, enzymes, and folic acid. Therefore no wonder so many people use natural bee pollen as a dietary supplement to enhance their energy and promote well-being.
Consuming bee pollen products
Raw and naturally produced bee pollen usually comes in the form of granules and is intended to be added to food or smoothies. One tablespoon of bee pollen contains 16 calories, 0.24 grams of fat, 1.2 grams of protein, 2.18 grams of carbohydrates, and 250 different types of nutrients, including vitamins and flavonoids. There is no standard dose for consuming bee pollen. Some people use 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of bee pollen granules daily. However, the best way to consume it is to follow the instruction on your product packaging. This natural supplement is best taken in the morning, at breakfast, preferably with a piece of fruit. In essence, the fruit fibers (raw hemicellulose) reinforce the activity of the fresh pollen. This way, you provide your body with much-needed nutrients for the whole day ahead.
Reasons why you need to add bee pollen to your daily diet
Bee pollen is skin soother – Just like honey, bee pollen has the power to soothe the inflamed or irritated skin. It is rich in flavonoids that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Researches have shown that the ability of bee pollen to reduce inflammation is comparable to that of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs. The amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can also aid the stimulation and regeneration of the cells and protect the skin. By eating bee pollen regularly, you can also prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Its potent antibacterial properties also prevent acne and promote wound healing.
Necessary energy and metabolism booster – The range of nutrients, especially the high level of vitamin B, including B6 and B12, make bee pollen great natural energizer. Because of its high protein content, eating bee pollen also improves metabolism, thus uplifting your energy and strengthening your mind. Additionally, bee pollen increases muscle mass by restoring protein that has been lost.
Raw bee pollen is immune and digestive system supporter – Pollen is good for the intestinal flora and thereby supports the immune system. It has antibiotic properties that can help the body in fighting Salmonella and other bacterial strains and protect it from contracting viruses. Bee pollen also contains enzymes that can aid in digestion. Enzymes assist your body in getting all the nutrients you need from the food that you eat.
Bee pollen is useful for the respiratory system, and treating allergies – Pollen reduces the presence of histamine, ameliorating many allergies. Since bee pollen contains a high quantity of antioxidants, it has an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissues of the lungs. Everything from asthma to allergies to sinus problems can be cleared, confirming that bee pollen is wonderfully effective against a wide range of respiratory diseases.
Supports the cardiovascular system – This popular superfood contains large amounts of rutin. This antioxidant bioflavonoid helps restore blood vessels, assists with circulatory problems, and improves cholesterol levels. Thus, bee pollen potent anti-clotting power could help prevent heart attack and stroke.
Prostate aid – Men who suffer from benign prostate hyperplasia can find relief by using bee pollen. The reason behind this is that bee pollen can help reduce inflammation to stop frequent urges to urinate.
Natural bee pollen helps treat addictions – Used holistically for healing addictions and inhibiting cravings by suppressing impulses. Because bee pollen crashes cravings, it may be useful for healthy weight loss. However, more research is needed into these potential benefits, particularly when it comes to weight management.
Helps with infertility problems – Bee pollen stimulates and restores ovarian function, and therefore may be used to assist in accelerating pregnancy. As well as being a hormonal booster, it is also considered to be a great aphrodisiac.
Takeaways
Raw bee pollen originates from plants, so, naturally, it contains some of the healthy elements of the plant. As with honey, the composition of bee pollen is highly dependent upon the plant from where it comes from. It contains carbohydrates, protein, and lipids, as well as essential micronutrients, including minerals and vitamins. Additionally, it has several vital phytonutrients, which work together to promote health and well being. Bee pollen is generally safe to consume. However, if you want to introduce it to your diet, it is best to consult with your doctor.
