Living Touch

Bee pollen is plant pollens that have been collected by worker bees combined with plant nectar and bee saliva. Bee pollen is gathered from pollen laden bees by a special device which is placed at the entrance of the hive and which is made to brush the pollen from the bee’s hind legs. As bee pollen is rich in vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, trace elements, and minerals, it has become a popular nutritional supplement.

Bee Pollen Nutritional Facts

Bee pollen supplies all the nutrients a bee needs for growth and development. It contains about 27% carbohydrates, 24% protein, 14% fiber, 9% fatty acids, and 3.5% ash. It also contains many minerals, including remarkably high levels of zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and also potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Further, it is rich in most of the B vitamins and carotenes. The question is, is what is good for bees also good for us humans?

Bee Pollen Possible Health Benefits

Bee Pollen is said to have an immunizing effect, enhance vitality, and counteract the effects of radiation and chemical toxins. It is believed to be beneficial for nausea, sleep disorders, and problems following radiation treatment, such as urinary and rectal disorders. Athletes take this supplement to help increase their endurance, energy, speed, and strength. Bee pollen is further believed to relieve brain fatigue and to improve altertness, to increase the capacity for intense concentration and to enable longer periods of work without tiredness. Bee pollen is also said to have a beneficial effect on blood pressure and sexual function, to increase metabolism and thus help with weight loss, and to relieve colitis, and constipation. Finally, bee pollen is believed to strengthen the respiratory system and help the body build a natural defense shield against allergic responses. However, no scientific evidence supports any of these uses.

Bee Pollen Risks

In some people, bee pollen can cause adverse allergic reactions. In rare cases, it can even cause a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction in which the throat swells shut and breathing is inhibited. Therefore, bee pollen should only be taken with caution and should not be taken by anyone with a history of anaphylatic reactions. Bee pollen may also cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and irritation and itching in the mouth and throat. In some cases it has shown to cause headache, fatigue, asthma attacks and general feelings of poor health. People suffering from diabetes should consult their doctor before taking bee pollen as it contains natural sugars.

Bee Pollen Products

Bee pollen is available in tablet, capsules, powder, liquid, and granule form, and there are numerous products on the market in which bee pollen is an ingredient. It is advised to start with the granule form and to take no more than three pollen granules at first. Only if there is no adverse reaction, it is safe to take pollen in any other form.