Facts

• Bee pollen for supplements either comes directly from pollen on the bees or is extracted from blooming flowers by a machine. Bee pollen contains enzymes from the bees, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and trace elements. According to the Meriter Health Services website, bee pollen contains about 35 percent protein, 55 percent carbohydrate, 3 percent vitamins and minerals and 2 percent fatty acids. Bee pollen is used as a supplement for allergy relief, anti-aging benefits, stomach problems, athletic performance and to boost energy levels. However, Meriter asserts that the benefits of bee pollen are not backed by scientific proof.
  
  

Allergies

• The primary danger of bee pollen is its side effects for people with allergies and asthma. The irony is that bee pollen is said to help relieve allergies. Although bee pollen is ingested, an allergy sufferer still may feel the effects of pollen. Mild symptoms include wheezing and rashes. In rare severe cases, an allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can develop. Symptoms include breathing difficulties, convulsions, unconsciousness or even death. If you experience any side effects, call 911 immediately.
  
  

Toxins

• Taking bee pollen also may put you at a risk of ingesting toxins. Pollen originates from various flowers, some of which are located in environmentally hazardous environments. You will not be able to tell where the bee pollen comes from by looking at the package. If you decide to take the supplement, you do so at a risk of ingesting various contaminants, according to Meriter.
  
  

Nausea

• The mildest of side effects include nausea or upset stomach. LovetoKnow.com states that such symptoms usually subside after taking the supplement for a few days, when your body gets used to it. However, if the nausea continues after several days, stop taking bee pollen.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Pregnant and nursing women should not take bee pollen supplements. Bee pollen should not be consumed by anyone with allergies or asthma to avoid the risk of a severe reaction, according to Meriter. Also, do not take this supplement if you are allergic to bee stings. Follow the dosage instructions, which are usually 500 milligrams up to four times a day. LovetoKnow.com recommends that you buy a high-quality bee pollen supplement in order to minimize side effects. Look for bottles that have a certificate of analysis on them, which indicates that the bee pollen has been checked for contaminants.