Bee pollen is considered by alternative medicine advocates as a super food. It is said to be rich in vitamins, protein, and free amino acids that can promote good health in humans. There are some records that show its medicinal properties have been harnessed by man as early as 2000 B.C.
1. What is Bee Pollen?
Bee pollen is the food of the young bee. It is derived from the pollen that is collected on the bodies of bees, and it may include bee saliva. Working bees are responsible for collecting pollen from plants, working eight hours a day just to gather a teaspoon of bee pollen.
Pollen is a fine powder that is produced in the male part of plants and flowers called stamen. It is not possible to duplicate bee pollen, as only bees can produce it.
2. What is Bee Pollen Good For?
It is believed that bee pollen has plenty of health benefits.
One, it can enhance your stamina thanks to its wide range of nutrients such as carbohydrates, B vitamins and protein. It is also said to be an effective skin soother, and as such is often utilized in topical products sold for the treatment of common skin irritations like eczema. The amino acids and vitamins found in bee pollen can protect the skin and support cell regeneration.
Bee pollen is also beneficial to the respiratory system with its high amount of antioxidants. These antioxidants have an anti-inflammatory effect on lung tissues, and may be used to prevent asthma.
Bee pollen is also effective in treating allergies as it reduces histamine, and can aid the digestive system with its high levels of enzymes. Enzymes are biological molecules that let your body get the nutrients it needs from the foods you eat.
It can also boost the immune system because it is rich in antioxidants that protect the cells against free radical damage. Bee pollen can treat infections, boost the immune system, and prevent heart attack and stroke. It can also be used to enhance your sexual drive as it is known as an effective aphrodisiac.
3. Is Bee Pollen Vegan?
No, bee pollen is not eaten by vegans just like another bee byproduct, honey. By definition, veganism pertains to a way of living that discourages all forms of exploitation of the the animal kingdom. Vegans are those who practice veganism. Vegans believe that humans steal bee pollen from bees, so they don’t eat it.
4. What Does Bee Pollen Taste Like?
Bee pollen’s taste may vary subject to the nectar and flower source where it is derived from. Some pollen are slightly sweet; some taste bitter; while others have a nut-like flavor.
It is very versatile that you can mix it with any food you like to improve its taste. However for best results, bee pollen should not be cooked nor added to boiling water.
5. Is Bee Pollen a Super food?
It depends on who you believe in. Despite all the claims on its perceived health benefits, bee pollen is not considered by traditional medicine as a super food. However, advocates of alternative medicine believe otherwise.
6. Is Bee Pollen Good for You?
Bee pollen would be good for you if you are always tired and exhausted, or if you want to improve your athletic performance. The use of bee pollen in food supplements actually started in the ‘70s when athletes testified that taking the said product helps improve their stamina and athletic ability.
Bee pollen is good for you if you always have allergies, or you usually experience mild health problems like constipation, and skin irritations such as eczema.
You may also find bee pollen beneficial if you have problems having a baby, or if you have difficulty in shedding weight. You can also use bee pollen if you have dull skin.
7. Does Bee Pollen Go Bad?
Yes, bee pollen can go bad or spoiled when not stored properly. It may also lose its nutritional value after some time. You should store bee pollen jar in a cool, dark place.
8. How Much Bee Pollen to Take?
It depends on the ailment or health problem that you are having.
For instance, if you are taking bee pollen for your allergies, the standard dose is 1 tablespoon of raw granules or 2000 milligrams in tablet form. You can take at least three tablets of bee pollen supplements 30 minutes before a workout so you can get the energy and endurance boost you need for your training, and another pill or two after your workout to speed up the muscle recovery process.
If you are an athlete preparing for a competition, you may take up to 12 500mg pills a day. Take six capsules an hour before a workout and another six an hour after you finished your workouts.
For general health purposes, 1-2 heaping teaspoons of raw granules or 1000 milligrams a day taken with water should suffice.
9. Is Bee Pollen Safe?
Bee pollens can cause allergic reaction. Some of the symptoms of allergic reaction are hives, swelling, and shortness of breath. You should not use or take bee pollen if you are pregnant. You must also avoid using it if you are breastfeeding.
Bee pollen can also cause bleeding if used with blood thinners such as warfarin. Tell your doctor about any plan to use bee pollen especially if you use any medications or over-the-counter drugs, and even herbal supplements.
10. How to Use Bee Pollen?
There are many ways to use bee pollen. You can buy bee pollen supplements that come in tablet form and take it as prescribed by the manufacturer.
You can also use bee pollen granules as a topping over cereal or yogurt, or blend ground pollen into a smoothie. It is also possible to sprinkle bee pollen granules over other foods like salad, desserts, or as garnish on top of ice cream or dark chocolate. Bee pollen granules may also be sprinkled on toasted whole wheat bread.