The power of nature in bee pollen!

Bee pollen is a bee product derived from flowers. It is one of the most known natural products worldwide as it has many properties.

What is pollen and how it is produced

   Pollen is a product produced by bees from the male reproductive cells of the flowers. Its composition is not stable as it derives from hundreds of different flowers. Bees flying from flower to flower collect pollen in which they add nectar and other substances.

   Turning to the honeybee, pollen is normally stored in the honeycomb where it is covered with a thin layer of honey and wax, creating the so-called “bee bread”. Bee bread, after anaerobic fermentation, is the main protein source for bees. People collect this pollen and remove any foreign agent. Then pollen is stored either frozen or dry in the refrigerator.

   The flavor and appearance of the pollen differ according to the flowers from which it originates. The color can vary from yellow to dark brown and black.

Nutritional value

   As pollen derives from many different plants, its nutritional value is very rich. According to studies, it has been found that pollen contains over 200 substances such as amino acids, vitamins, flavonoids, enzymes and macronutrients (carbohydrates, lipids and proteins). In particular, it contains vitamins of B complex, vitamin C, alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid and it is considered a rich source of carotenoids and polyphenols. Thanks to its rich composition, it has various biological actions, making it one of the most distinct natural products.

Properties

Antioxidant action

   Many studies have highlighted pollen as a food with strong antioxidant activity. Thanks to its rich composition in enzymatic hydrolases, flavonoids and phenolic components, it can also inactivate the free radicals, thus protecting cells from oxidative damages. For this reason, many studies have highlighted the benefits of pollen supplementation in various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and cancer.

Antilipidemic action

   Many studies have shown that regular pollen intake reduces blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) about 20-30%. Additionally, pollen reduces platelet aggregation, thereby preventing the occurrence of atherosclerosis and strokes, while helping to improve brain function by improving blood flow.

Antimicrobial activity

   Pollen extract has been shown to have potent antimicrobial activity. In particular, it has been found to be effective in reducing pathogenic microorganisms such as Gram+ bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram- bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aergionsa) and fungi (Candida albicans). Its antibacterial and antifungal activity is due to its composition in flavonoids and phenolic acids.

Anti-inflammatory action

   Its anti-inflammatory action is due to the inhibition of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, enzymes responsible for the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, involved in acute and chronic inflammation.

Hepatoprotective action

   Pollen has been shown through studies to protect liver cells from toxins and liver damage, by reducing the concentration of harmful substances in blood serum. In particular, it has been found that polyphenols, flavonoids and phenolic acids detoxify the liver from heavy metals.

Antiallergenic action

  Studies have shown that pollen protects certain cells of the body from the effects of histamine that is the main trigger of allergies, especially in the early stages of allergy.

Interactions and contraindications

   Pollen consumption is relatively safe, as very few people are sensitive to it. If you develop itching or other skin or gastrointestinal reactions (rash, nausea, diarrhea), you should stop taking it.

Pollen dosage

   The recommended dose for adults is 20-40 grams daily, 3-5 teaspoons, while for children it is 1-2 teaspoons. It is usually given in 2-3 doses in a day before eating, for a period of 1-3 months. However, as it is safe to take, it can be taken 2-4 times a year, especially between winter and spring, or summer and autumn.

   In Vita4you you can find a variety of products with pollen.