The ancient Egyptians called bee pollen the life-giving powder and archaeologists have unearthed several documents dating back to the time of the ancient Greeks that testify to the use of this remedy to treat diseases and ailments. Science, in recent years, has therefore only been able to confirm what tradition had already understood centuries if not millennia ago, namely that bee pollen is a source of properties for health. But let's try to understand better too, by analyzing the results of the most recent scientific studies.
Bee pollen, nutrients and properties
Bee pollen provides proteins and amino acids, including the very important tryptophan, also useful for improving sleep, carbohydrates and therefore energy, essential fatty acids, such as linoleic and gamma acids linoleic, and phytosterols. Not only that, bee pollen also contains antioxidants, such as carotenoids, catechins, chlorogenic acid, kaempferol and quercetin. Finally, bee pollen is a precious source of vitamins, such as vitamins A, E, group B, C and D, and mineral salts, such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, calcium, phosphorus and selenium (Khalifa et al. al, Nutrients, 2021).
Bee pollen for blood sugar, cholesterol and fatty liver
The intestinal enzymes alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase have the task of splitting the polysaccharides into glucose, which will then be introduced into the bloodstream and carried to the cells. Bee pollen helps regulate the action of these enzymes for better blood sugar control (Khalifa et al, Nutrients, 2021). Not only that, bee pollen counteracts fatty liver disease and helps reduce the levels of bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (Khalifa et al, Nutrients, 2021).
Bee pollen, allergies and the immune system
Bee pollen has an immunoprotective action since it stimulates the synthesis of T lymphocytes, which play an essential role in the fight against viral infections, and increases the phagocytosis capacity of granulocytes neutrophils, which intervene in inflammatory processes by swallowing pathogens, in order to remove them from the body (Komosinska-Vassev et al, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2015). In addition to this, bee pollen also has an anti-allergic action by acting on immunoglobulins E, reducing them. Immunoglobulins E are antibodies involved in the allergic response. Finally, pollen also has a prebiotic action, supporting the intestinal microbiota, with benefits on the whole organism and on the immune system, which is strengthened (Alghamdi et al, Metabolites, 2022).
Bee pollen with detoxifying action
The intake of bee pollen has been shown to counteract toxins, excess medicines and heavy metals and their harmful effects, increasing antioxidants in the body (Khalifa et al, Nutrients, 2021 - Komosinska -Vassev et al, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2015).
Bee pollen and kidney stones
Bee pollen has been shown to counteract the formation of kidney stones and protect the kidneys from free radical damage (Elghouizi et al, Sci Rep, 2022).
Bee pollen in menopause
Bee pollen can also bring benefits in menopause, relieving some symptoms such as hot flashes, irritability, depression and night sweats (Muenstedt et al, Mol Clin Oncol, 2015).
Bee pollen and longevity
Taking bee pollen also helps you live long and healthy. This is thanks to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this product. Not only that, pollen has also been shown to protect muscles and preserve muscle mass (Salles et al, Nutrients, 2014).
Bee pollen, where it is found and how to take it
Bee pollen is sold in specialized and organic food stores. It comes in the form of yellowish granules to be taken orally in purity or in addition to preparations such as yogurt. The maximum dose is generally 3 teaspoons for adults and 1 teaspoon for children for 1-3 months, but the treatment can be repeated 2-3 times a year (Khalifa et al, Nutrients, 2021).
Bee pollen, warnings
Bee pollen is considered safe. However, care should be taken in the case of severely allergic people with respiratory manifestations such as asthma, in this case it is possible that the ingestion of pollen can cause strong hypersensitivity reactions such as swelling, itching, sore throat and difficulty breathing (Prichard et al. al, Aust N Z J Med, 2985). Also ask your doctor for advice before starting any treatment with bee pollen as this product may interact with certain medications, such as warfarin, an anticoagulant (Hurren et al, Am J Health Syst Pharm, 2010).
