The Secrets of Bee Pollen Uncovered
Before you find yourself tempted to swat at that bee that has been buzzing around you this afternoon, stop and think about what that bee actually does for us. That apple, those flowers, and even that chocolate bar you enjoyed for dessert are all thanks to bee pollen and pollination.
But that’s not all. Not only is bee pollen the reason for so many fruits, vegetables and plantation we have outdoors, but the more we learn about bee pollen the more scientists recognize how beneficial bee pollen can be for our health.
What is in Bee Pollen?
Did you know that bee pollen actually has more than 96 nutrients in it? Did you know that every single nutrient that is needed for us to live is contained within this finite dust? Here’s a short list of the nutrients that can be found in bee pollen:
22 amino acids
B-Complex vitamins
Vitamin C
Folic acid
Polyunsaturated fatty acids
Enzymes
Carotene
Iron
Zinc
Calcium
Copper
Potassium
Magnesium
How can Bee Pollen Benefit Me?
Thanks to the numerous vitamins and minerals that bee pollen has to offer, taking approximately 35 grams of bee pollen every day can guarantee that your every nutritional need is being met. When every nutritional need is being met, you are then able to enjoy the health benefits that come along with a healthier life style, such as:
Increased immunity. Vitamins B, C, D, and E, as well as beta-carotene, calcium, selenium, proteins, magnesium, lecithin, cysteine and nucleic acids can all be found in bee pollen. These have been proven to strengthen one’s immune system.
Become allergy-free! Though pollen may be the cause for many of your sniffles and your red, itchy eyes, bee pollen can actually help you build up a resistance to allergens and prevent allergic reactions (such as hay fever).
Get Energized! Many doctors and nutritionists believe that the long term use of bee pollen will also leave you with increased energy and improved endurance.
Reduce Stress. Receiving the required amount of amino acids, fatty acids and vitamins help regulate your mood, thereby helping you cope and manage stress. Plus, if you are feeling less fatigued and discover you have more energy, the exercise you’ll be able to take on will help you decompress and relax!
Are there Any Side Effects I Should Know About?
If you are planning on taking bee pollen or any sort of bee pollen supplement, do be aware of any potential side effects, such as:
Coughing
Wheezing
Flushed Skin
Hives
Itchy/”Scratchy” throat
Anaphylactic shock
If you do have any history of pollen allergies, asthma, or bee sting allergies it is important to discuss the potential side effects with your health care practitioner. Anaphylactic shock (which includes breathing problems, convulsions, and loss of consciousness) may also be a side effect.
When you do plan on taking a bee pollen supplement, do be sure to start with small doses so you can monitor your body’s reaction. Should you notice no side effects, slowly increase the dose of bee pollen until you can be sure you do not have an allergy.