So, what is bee pollen you ask?

Pollen as you know is what bees collect on flowers. As the bees travel from flower to flower, the pollen sticks to their legs and bodies and collects in little compartments located on their hind legs. Once the bees get back to the hive, that pollen is eventually converted into a food source for the colony.

Bee pollen is referred to as a perfect food and is consumed as such in places like Europe.

Why is it a perfect food? It is said to contain almost all of the nutrients needed for us to live and function. Wow, right? It’s like nature’s little secret.

Bee pollen has many health benefits including, but not limited to, providing allergy relief, boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, acting as an antioxidant, providing some relief to those going through menopause, and displaying antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective (liver protecting), anticancer, and local analgesic properties.

If you are allergic to honey or any other similar food product, or vegan, then of course, you would steer clear of bee pollen.

WHERE TO BUY BEE POLLEN: 

• Vitamin Shoppe
• Sunfood Superfoods
• Amazon
• Your local natural foods store

You can use bee pollen also in yogurt and on top of a salad, but of course, I chose the most fun way of all, so as promised here is a simple smoothie recipe.

Bee Pollen Smoothie

This recipe only calls for 3 ingredients, including the bee pollen, because I figured since it is already such a complete and perfect food there’s no need to add a whole lot.

This recipe serves 1.

What you’ll need:

• 2 frozen bananas
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon bee pollen (I used Sunfood)

Directions:

Blend all ingredients in a high speed blender until smooth. Enjoy!

Looking for simple smoothie recipes you can make to detox your kitchen or just jumpstart your way to better eating habits? Check out my *new* smoothie book: 75 Simple Smoothie Recipes for Real People