Besides collecting nectar from flowers, bees select only those pollens that contain the greatest amounts of protein and other nutrients. The bees mix them with nectar and some of the bees' own secretions and take them to their hives. Bees use this pollen as food.
Bee pollen contains much more protein per ounce than any other natural food. It also contains a wide variety of other nutrients
Bee pollen seems to supply something that some unhealthy, stressed and aging people lack and need. It is used to retard hardening of the arteries and to strengthen the circulatory system. It is also used to combat the symptoms of illnesses and allergies. It is believed to regulate the function of the endocrine system. When eaten after meals, it is believed to aid digestion. It also stops some women's menstrual cramps.
Bee pollen is believed to reduce stress and to increase alertness and stamina. Olympic and other athletes use pollen as a low-calorie protein source and also as a quick, yet sustained source of energy.
Applied to the skin, bee pollen is believed to help heal wounds and acne.
A very few people are allergic to bee pollen. Therefore, it is suggested that people start taking small amounts of bee pollen and gradually increase the amount until they are taking one to two teaspoonfuls daily. If allergic symptoms occur, temporarily decrease the amount taken. Soon, the symptoms will disappear.
Bee pollen looks like tiny yellow, tan, orange and brown balls. It varies in taste depending on the plants from which it comes. Some bee pollen has a slightly sweet and nut-like flavor. Some is bitter. It can be eaten alone or mixed with any cold food or thick cold beverage.
Bee pollen will contain differing amounts of nutrients depending on its source.
TYPICAL COMPOSITION PER 100 GRAMS
Protein
22.0%
Moisture
11.9%
Fat
9.0%
Ash
2.2%
Crude Fiber
3.0%
Total Fiber
7.6%
Carbohydrates
51.8%
Calories
350
TYPICAL VITAMIN & MINERAL PROFILE
Vitamin A
8300 IU/kg.
Vitamin C
200 mg/kg.
Alpha Toccpherol (E)
46 mg/kg.
Thiamine HCL (B1)
14.0 mg/kg.
Riboflavin (B2)
11.0 mg/kg.
Pyridoxine HCL (B6)
2.9 mg/kg.
Vitamin B12
0.04 mg/kg.
Biotin
0.054 mg/kg.
Folic Acid
19 mg/kg.
Niacin
110 mg/kg.
Pantothenic Acid
7.7 mg/kg.
Potassium
525 mg/kg.
Selenium
0.30 mg/kg.
Sodium
40.4 mg/kg.
Bee pollen contains eight essential amino acids and ten other amino acids.
