Bee pollen is rich in a variety of nutrients, but the supplement also has drawbacks. A range of studies have been preformed on bee pollen, yet there is no hard evidence the supplement works, reports NYU's Langone Medical Center. The supplement comes in natural granule form as well as tablets and liquid. Pollen is collected from bees or collected mechanically from plants. According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, pollen contains male reproductive cells, known as gametes, and digestive enzymes.
Definition
Bees collect pollen as they visit blooms for nectar. Pollen is stored in small sacks on their hind legs and is deposited before entering the hive, if nets have been put in place. The nets force the bee to squeeze through a small hole to enter hive, leaving behind pollen. Bee pollen is sold as a nutritional supplement. Therefore, it is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. You may find bee pollen sold as buckwheat, maize, rape or pine pollen. The substance has been traditionally used in Chinese herbal remedies.
Components
Bee pollen contains a variety of healthy components. According to Drugs.com, pollen is made up of 30 percent protein, 55 percent carbohydrates, 3 percent vitamins and minerals and a trace of fat. The website reports some bee pollen has up to 5.9 percent vitamin C. Meghan Telper, a nutritionist and holistic lifestyle specialist, states that bee pollen contains an amino acid that suppress your diet. Telper also states that bee pollen contains high amounts of lecithin, which aids in dissolving fat cells. Lecithen naturally emulsifies fat into smaller particles. The body is more likely to use small fat cells as energy, instead of storing these fat cells.
Claims
A variety of health claims are associated with bee pollen; however, there is little scientific evidence to substantiate the claims. Athletes report increased physical stamina and energy levels with regular use. Some people suffering from pollen allergies may find relief taking very small qualities of pollen. According to NYU's Langone Medical Center, some people believe taking small amounts of pollen builds up resistance to allergens in the body and decreases allergic reactions.
Dangers
In very rare circumstances, taking bee pollen may causes a severe reaction known as anaphalaxis. Your throat may tighten and swell shut. Breathing will become impossible. The reaction has occurred when sensitive individuals have taken even small amounts of bee pollen. Some bee pollen may be high in outdoor pollutants such as metal contaminants and pesticides. Additional, less serious side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue and general feelings of poor health.
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