Bee pollen is the male seed of a flower blossom which are collected by the honey bees and mixed with the bees' digestive enzymes. It's a blend of sticky pollen granules that could contain up to five million pollen spores each. Super nutritious, these pollens contain almost all the nutrients required by the human body. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, beneficial fatty acids, carotenoids, and bioflavonoids which are anti-viral, antibacterial and helpful in lowering cholesterol, stabilizing and strengthening capillaries.
Fresh pollens contain a wide spectrum of amino acids which are the building blocks of protein needed to build every cell in the body, from blood cell to the cells in the skin, organs and bones. There are also numerous active enzymes present in fresh and unheated pollens. Eating foods that contain enzymes helps the body prevent and fight diseases such as cancer and arthritis and saves the body from having to make enzymes, a process that depletes energy. Applied to the skin, these pollens are also believed to be helpful in healing wounds and acne.
Appreciated for years as an excellent weight control, bee pollen is low in calories and contains natural Phenylalanine which acts as appetite suppressant and Lecithin that helps dissolve and flush fat from the body, that is, detoxification and cleansing. Its ability to rejuvenate the body, stimulates organs, enhances vitality and accelerate rate of recovery makes it a popular tonic and home remedy among athletes and sportsmen. High-quality, fresh pollen consists of soft, pliable granules that are neither pasteurized nor heated.
The best type of pollen is frozen as it's collected and stored frozen until it's packaged. These tiny yellow, orange, or brown granules and tablets can be chewed alone. The taste varies depending on the plants from which it comes. Some pollen has a slightly sweet and nut-like flavor, while some is bitter. Many people, who can't get used to the taste, choose to mix the granules with other foods.
For instance, some parents blend it together with fruits and milk to form a delicious smoothie for their young children who would require all the essential amino acids, minerals, vitamins to grow strong and healthy. Bee pollen is not the same as allergy causing pollen that is dry, lightweight and is carried easily by the wind. It rarely cause allergy symptoms. However, people who are very cautious of allergic reactions could start with small amounts of pollen intake and gradually increase the amount to be assured that the consumption is safe.
Copyright (c) 2008 Ruth Tan.
Ruth Tan runs the popular website Benefits of Honey which is an immensely rich, quality resource on honey and its benefits, and a plethora of health-related issues. Discover the amazing health benefits and all the positive spin-offs super-food honey can bring to your life and the lives of your loved ones at http://www.benefits-of-honey.com
