I've been exploring some natural supplements recently, one of which is bee pollen. I get mine from our farmer's market, and it's sourced from a local beekeeper.
Natural News has many informative articles, such as this one (there are other articles too if you search within the Natural News website). It is mind-blowing to me how bee pollen - tiny unassuming-looking little things, are considered superfood. Here's some information from Natural News:
Bee pollen consists of 55% carbohydrates, 35% protein, 3% vitamins and minerals, 2% fatty acids, and 5% other substances. It also contains 14.2% fiber. Bee pollen contains 5 to 7 times the amino acids found in equal weights of beef, milk, eggs or cheese. It is also very high in Vitamin B-complex, which is needed in order to help the body function correctly, and several antioxidants including lycopene, selenium, beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It also contains lecithin, which has been shown to normalize cholesterol and triglycerides, and it decreases LDL cholesterol, the "bad cholesterol," and increases HDL cholesterol, the "good cholesterol."
That's pretty impressive. In addition, it can help prevent allergies - another great bonus for this time of year. I don't have a history of having respiratory based allergies (knock on wood), but I do tend to get skin allergies in the warmer months. In fact, before I go out for a walk, I apply hydrocortisone cream on my exposed skin - but I realize I probably shouldn't do that on a regular basis. So I've been trying this bee pollen more regularly this past week. I take about a teaspoon and blend it into my fruit smoothies, but you can also add it to your cereal, granola, oatmeal, etc.
It does have a distinct flavor, but not overpowering, especially since you would only use a small amount - and in a smoothie or mixed into granola it works out just fine.
Do any of you use bee pollen?
More on bee pollen here and here.
Here is a local supplier of bee pollen.
~ This is not medical advice, just personal experience. ~
2 comments:
can you bring a pack for me?
Sure, dad... just not sure if it will be as effective for allergies if it is from here vs. from Manila...I think it has to be "local" (harvested within 100 miles) for it to be most effective - but I can try and find out more. I suppose you could take it for the other benefits though... (ask your dr.)
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