When “winning at all costs” becomes the motto of many athletes, it is no wonder that they fall prey to fad diets and unnecessary supplements―the products that science does not support their claims. Bee pollen is one of those controversial supplements in sports. It has been touted to improve energy and endurance in its users. Though bee pollen may have some general positive effects on health, studies on athletic performance, aerobic and anaerobic, dismisses clearly any positive impacts on human performance. In other words, bee pollen lacks any ergogenic activity on sports enhancement.
Bee pollen is a tiny ball made of concentrated pollens from flowers by honeybees to be used as food source for the hive. It is claimed that bee pollen contains some amino acids, vitamins especially B group, minerals and essential fatty acids. Recent research on bee pollen indicates that it is rich in flavonoids such as tricetin, luteolin, myricetin, and quercetin.
Potential Benefits of Bee Pollen:
1) May improve stamina.
2) Acts an antioxidants.
3) May decrease inflammation.
4) Can boost the immune system.
5) Promotes healing.
6) Serves as a weight loss aid.
Dosage, Side Effects and Interactions:
The usual daily dose of bee pollen is 500-1000 mg. When taken for a short term, bee pollen appears to be safe for most people. Even though it is used sometimes to fight allergy, bee pollen can cause serious allergic reactions.
Bee pollen should not be taken in the following conditions:
1) Along with blood sugar-lowering medications.
2) Along with blood thinning medications.
3) Pregnant and breastfeeding women.