Historical evidence shows that the use of bee pollen by humans dates as far back as ancient Egyptian times.
Beekeepers of old knew that this near-magical substance is one of nature’s best kept secrets. It has long been considered an excellent source of many health benefits, including longevity.
Bee pollen contains numerous vitamins and minerals, natural hormones and essential fatty acids. It is also richer in protein than any animal source, with more amino acids than eggs, cheese or beef, and about half of its protein in the form of free amino acids; immediately ready to be used by the body.
The next time you throw those healthy ingredients in the blender to create a nutritious smoothie, here are just some of the benefits that can be derived by adding bee pollen.
Energy Boost
Bee pollen provides a natural energy boost. Ancient Greek athletes were known to consume it regularly to boost energy levels as well as to increase strength and vitality. Its wide range of nutrients can help keep you going all day, enhancing stamina and fighting fatigue and sluggishness.
Strengthen Immune System
Bee pollen is known to strengthen the immune system and help fight a host of diseases. It benefits the immune system by providing it with vital nutrients including vitamins B, C, D, and E as well as protein, cysteine, nucleic acids and magnesium.
Treat Allergies
As bee pollen contains traces of numerous substances that are known to trigger allergic reactions like hay fever, allergists believe it can actually help lower sensitivity to local plant pollens, which can ease the effects of hay fever and other allergic reactions.
One study found that a physician who treated his patients with bee pollen resulted in 94 percent becoming completely free from allergy symptoms.
Reduce Stress and Improve Mood
As bee pollen offers a complete nutrient profile of every substance the body needs, its amino acids, minerals and essential fatty acids are known to reduce stress and even put you in a better mood. People who suffer from frequent mood swings have been able to stabilize their moods by taking bee pollen on a regular basis.
Improve Digestion
Bee pollen contains enzymes that can aid digestion. It can relieve indigestion, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive problems.
Support the Cardiovascular System
Bee pollen contains large amounts of rutin, which is an antioxidant bioflavonoid that strengthens capillaries and blood vessels. It also helps maintain good cholesterol levels and offers powerful anti-clotting abilities that may prevent heart attack and stroke.
Anti-Aging
Bee pollen is packed with antioxidants that battle free radicals caused from stress, pollutants, environmental toxins and other chemicals. It can even prevent many signs of premature aging including wrinkles and haggard-looking skin.
Using bee pollen in a smoothie is a great way to incorporate this superfood into your diet. Here is a tasty recipe for an energy boosting drink:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 cup frozen organic blueberries
- 1 banana, cut up into several chunks
- ½ to 1” chunk of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon bee pollen
Bee pollen also tastes great sprinkled on your breakfast cereal or salad.
-The Alternative Daily
