Bee Pollen Side Effects

Bee pollens are the pollen grains that bees collect to feed their young ones. Pollen grains carry the male gametes of flowers and these are packed with digestive enzymes and over ninety nutrients that are required by us. No wonder then, that bee pollen is said to be the most complete food on earth. Despite all of their uses, certain side effects have been reported. Though such cases are rare, nevertheless, caution is more useful than running for medical aid.

Side Effects of Bee Pollen
One of the bee pollen benefits is that, it is used to treat allergies. This is done by the process of desensitization. In this process, small amounts of bee pollen is introduced in the body. Our immune system sees them as foreign substances. In response to this, our body produces substances that prevent, harmful reactions when one inhales pollen grains the next time. However, it is quite ironic that, the same bee pollen that is used to treat allergies, can trigger allergic reactions in some. Symptoms of such reactions are itchy throat, skin rash, fever, hives, coughing and wheezing. In severe cases, the affected person may go into an anaphylactic shock, in which, the swelling of throat and tongue, impairs breathing. If immediate medical help is not made available, then this can be fatal. Such reactions are seen in those individuals who are to prone to allergic reactions, especially caused due to bee stings. Those, who have a history of anaphylactic shock are strictly advised against consuming bee pollen.

Other than these allergic reactions, other side effects of bee pollen that certain individuals have reported include:

• Gastrointestinal problems
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Chest pain

Bee Pollen Caution
Though rare, the fact is that bee pollen dangers do exist. It is best to use caution while using such supplements. People who suffer from heart diseases, high blood pressure and any disease of the blood vessels should not take bee pollen. Women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding should also avoid taking bee pollen because although there have not been cases of side effects on such women reported and in fact, it could be just as beneficial for this group as, it generally is, for most of the population, nevertheless, since the effect of bee pollen has not been studied on these individuals, given the delicate condition that they are in, it is advised that pregnant women and nursing mothers do not consume bee pollen. Those suffering from diabetes, asthma and who are on prescription drugs should also exercise caution while considering bee pollen therapy. It is best, for such people, to consult their physician before they start taking bee pollen.

Another danger of bee pollen is that these entities absorb pollutants from the atmosphere very easily. Hence, if these are collected from areas which are heavily industrialized, then there is a possibility that instead of reaping the many benefits of bee pollen, one is consuming toxins and pollutants that are considered harmful for health. Hence, be very sure of where your bee pollen comes from. As of now, due to its cleaner environment as compared to most other countries, New Zealand is believed to be the safest place to get bee pollen from.

Bee Pollen Dosage
Whether you have had previous episodes of allergic reactions or not, it is best to be sure that you are not allergic to bee pollen than taking a normal dosage of it then realizing your mistake. It is very important to exercise caution before, one starts on bee pollen therapy. For this, test your body's reaction with a small amount of bee pollen first. Wait for a day to see if your body shows signs of an allergic reaction to bee pollen. Just in case, if you develop any signs of bee pollen side effects, discontinue use of the supplements and consult your doctor immediately. If not, then gradually increases your dosage till you are sure that you do not suffer from any harmful effects of the normal dosage of bee pollen. Once you know that you are not going to develop any complications due to bee pollen, stick to the recommended dose. Do not take double dose, if you skipped that of the previous day. In case you feel that you should make up for the skipped dose, consult your doctor first. As far as the correct dosage is concerned, stick to your physician's recommendation or to those mentioned with the supply.

Bee pollen adverse effects are rare but its impact can be serious in certain cases. Just in case one develops any signs of side effects, he should discontinue the dosage and contact his doctor immediately.