Bee pollen is a nutrient-dense substance commonly sold as a dietary supplement. While there is a long list of health claims associated with this product, little research has been done on these claims, so the jury is still out on the medicinal use of bee pollen. However, more is known about its nutritional content. Bee pollen, often touted as one of nature's "superfoods" is dense in certain vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients.
Bee Pollen Production
Bee pollen is composed of granules produced by bees as they gather pollen and nectar during their daily travels. As they visit flowers, pollen dust from each one gathers on the body of bees. Using pollen combs on the legs, the bee brushes the pollen from its body and deposits it in its pollen baskets on the legs, moistened with a drop of nectar and saliva to compress the pollen grains into a compact granule. These granules are harvested by beekeepers, often by means of creating entrances to the hive that are just large enough for the bee to squeeze through so that the bee pollen is rubbed off as they enter.
Macronutrients
According to Vanderbilt University, bee pollen typically contains macronutrients in these approximate proportions: 35 percent protein, 55 percent carbohydrate and 2 percent fat. The calorie content of bee pollen is approximately 16 calories per teaspoon. Because plant life varies from one area to another, nutritional values vary slightly according to the region in which the bee pollen is produced.
Micronutrients
Bee pollen contains a selection of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are essential to human health. Among these, according to Vanderbilt University, are nearly all B-complex vitamins along with vitamins A, C, E, folic acid and carotenoids. Bee pollen also contains essential fatty acids and a number of essential minerals, including potassium, phosphorus, calcium, copper, magnesium, sulfur, zinc and iron. Other nutrients found in bee pollen include amino acids, such as tryptophan, lysine and cystine, and a variety of enzymes.
Considerations
An abundance of health claims are made about bee pollen, stating its benefits in enhancing health and stamina and in treating a number of diseases, allergies and health conditions. However, according to University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, little research has been done on these claims and results of the few scientific studies available have been conflicting.
Cautions
Bee pollen can trigger severe allergic reactions in individuals with bee allergies or severe pollen sensitivities. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, reactions can include symptoms such as itching, headaches, inflammation, sneezing and anaphylactic shock. Other potential side effects of bee pollen include nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
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