Bees pollinate more than $15 billion worth of crops every single year in the United States. But forget about the financial value for a moment and consider this: without bees, most of the plants we eat would cease to exist and our food chain would collapse. In fact, bees have a number of incredible benefits to our ecosystem, and bee pollen is just one such example.
And while many people think that the benefits of bee pollen stop at the fruits they help grow, there are actually a surprising number of organic bee pollen benefits. The primary way to ingest bee pollen is through organic bee pollen capsules, but if you remove the organic bee pollen powder located within the capsules or buy it separately, it's easy and fun to get creative with the ways you ingest bee pollen.
Here's part one of our guide to help you explore some of the many ways to ingest, enjoy, and reap the benefits of bee pollen.
Bee Pollen Popcorn
Most people love to drench their popcorn in loads of salt and butter. Without adding these unhealthy ingredients, however, air popped popcorn is actually very healthy. Consider sprinkling bee pollen powder on some air popped popcorn for an extra flavor and nutritional boost. Melted coconut oil can serve as a healthier alternative to butter as well. If you enjoy this combination, don't be afraid to get experimental and add any other nuts, seeds, or healthy ingredients in order to make the combination resemble more of a trail mix. This power-packed combination is full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you energized all day long.
Bee Pollen Smoothie
Many health nuts may be surprised to hear that bee pollen is versatile enough to be used as an ingredient in most, if not all, smoothies. If you have a favorite healthy smoothie recipe in mind already, adding bee pollen powder to the mix can give it a flavor and nutritional boost.
If you don't have a favorite recipe in mind, consider this unique blend of ingredients: a peach, a cup of almond milk, a scoop of ice cream or frozen yogurt, some basil leaves, two tablespoons of honey, and half a teaspoon of almond extract. Add about a teaspoon of bee pollen powder, blend until smooth, and enjoy!
The best way to determine your favorite way to ingest bee powder is simply to experiment with using it as an ingredient in various foods and drinks. Keep an eye out for our next post, where we'll discuss some more delicious recipes that are absolutely perfect for adding and reaping organic bee pollen benefits.