Bee Pollen

In fact, it’s made up of 40% protein, with about half in the form of free amino acids that are ready to be used directly by the body. It’s even richer in protein than any animal source and contains more amino acids than beef, eggs or cheese of equal weight. And, because it’s so highly assimilable, it’s an excellent source for meeting one’s protein needs.

Bee pollen is also rich in minerals, beneficial fatty acids, carotenoids and bioflavonoids which are antiviral and antibacterial, as well as essential vitamins, including B-complex, and folic acid. In fact, pollen is the only plant source that contains vitamin B12.

Of course this near-miracle food, is nothing new – it may be one of the oldest foods on the planet, with bees and flowers evolving around the same time, roughly 150 million years ago. It’s been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, written about in ancient records like the early Egyptians who described it as “Life giving dust.”

Anti-inflammatory

A 2010 study out of Japan found that as a functional food or dietary supplement, bee pollen is beneficial for reducing inflammation. Compounds that offer anti-inflammatory properties are known to help prevent or reduce symptoms of a wide range of illness and disease, including painful conditions like arthritis as well as cancer, heart disease and even to help slow the aging process.

Relieving allergy symptoms

Bee pollen contains traces of a number of 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. Dr. Leo Conway, M.D. reported that after treating his patients with bee pollen, 94 percent were totally free of allergy symptoms, including everything from asthma to sinus problems.

Strengthening the immune system

Bee pollen is also thought to have a significant impact on the immune system due to its vitamin B, C, D and E content as well as calcium, magnesium, selenium, cysteine and variety of proteins. As it’s good for intestinal flora, this further boosts the immune system. Its antibiotic-like properties also help to protect the body from contracting infectious diseases like the cold and flu.

Improve digestion

In addition to being rich in so many essential nutrients, bee pollen contains enzymes that can aid digestion, including relieving indigestion, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive problems. There are over 100 active enzymes in fresh, unheated bee pollen. Consuming foods that contain enzymes is also known to help prevent and battle diseases like cancer and arthritis.

Energy booster

The many nutrients found in bee pollen are thought to contribute to its ability to boost energy as well as enhancing stamina and fighting fatigue.

Managing weight

Consuming bee pollen has also been reported to reduce cravings as well as to stimulate metabolic processes, which means you’ll not only burn more calories, you’ll be less likely to overeat. Its phenylalanine content, which is a natural amino acid the body requires, acts as an appetite suppressant.