The Buzz on Bee Pollen
health enthusiasts are taking a second look
2007-09-18
By Danielle Douglas

If you opened a time capsule buried in the 1970s, you’d find a lava lamp, keys to a Deuce, bell-bottoms, a zodiac poster and, possibly, a jar of bee pollen. Touted as a miracle supplement in the high holy days of the Afro, bee pollen was said to increase energy, boost the immune system and even combat the signs of aging.  The stuff was eventually buried in mothballs along with the dashiki, and sexier super foods like soybeans, blueberries and red wine took over as top sellers in the war on free radicals.

Well, bust out the mineral water, people; bee pollen is making a comeback. In search of ever more effective ways to reach optimum physical performance, health enthusiasts are taking another look at the once heralded supplement. But is the buzz legit or just so much snake oil?

A popular additive to smoothies and energy bars, this combination of plant pollens and nectar is said to contain hundreds of enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Much of its composition consists of nutrients with proven health benefits, such as beta-carotene, vitamins A, C, D and E. Bee pollen is also rich in muscle-building amino acids, more so than beef, eggs or cheese–making it popular with jocks. Another major constituent of the substance is carbohydrate, hence the energy boosting factor. In fact, it was this benefit that first generated the buzz surrounding bee pollen in the mid-1970s, when coaches declared that it improved athletic ability. Tests eventually concluded, however, that it was no more effective in increasing energy than a bowl of oatmeal.

Some findings show that the existence of fat, protein, phosphorous and iron makes pollen’s nutritional value comparable to that of dried beans, peas and lentils. And this supposed wonder supplement actually contains more calcium and magnesium than legumes.

One study discovered that bee pollen is helpful in treating cases of bleeding gastric ulcers as well as prostate enlargement. Other clinical trials have shown that Femal, a supplement containing extracts of pollen, improves symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including mood swings and bloating.

Still, many in the scientific community remain skeptical because of the lack of additional research to affirm or discredit all of these results. Critics also point out that since the US Federal Drug Administration regulates bee pollen as a dietary supplement, not a pharmaceutical, it’s not subject to standardized conditions. Therefore the product may not contain the labeled amount or may be contaminated.

One common use of pollen that has come under fire is for the treatment of allergies. Proponents say that small amounts of the substance will gradually create immunity to all plant pollens collected from bees. But many doctors warn that this can cause dangerous allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Despite the speculative claims made about bee pollen, it does have significant nutritional value. Besides with its naturally sweet taste, it may be an easier supplement to swallow than the standard fare. Given the dearth of research, however, its still best used in moderation. Sadly, with the mysterious and growing disappearance of honeybees, scientists may not get a chance to fully delve into its advantages.

In the end benefits of any enhancer is ultimately determined by the consumer. As with any natural supplement, be sure to consult your doctor before adding bee pollen to your health regiment. 

Danielle Douglas is a freelance writer in New York.