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What Are the Dangers of Eating Bee Pollen?

Bee pollen has been touted and marketed as a health-fortifying compound that can treat everything from aging to prostate disease. However, there is no concrete scientific evidence that bee pollen is as versatile as claimed. Bee pollen can cause adverse reactions in some individuals.

  1. Allergic Reactions, Old and New

    • Bee pollen may actually set off allergies in those who are particularly sensitive, especially those allergic to bee venom and ragweed. Reactions can include anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic reaction in which the throat may swell shut. Bee pollen may also trigger allergic asthma reactions in certain individuals, according to clinical dietitian Gale Maleskey's book, "Nature's Medicines." Keep in mind it is always possible to develop an allergy to something even if there has been no previous allergic reaction to the substance or no history of any kind of allergy.

    Pain and Fatigue

    • Maleskey writes that eating bee pollen may lead to stomach pain, mouth irritation, diarrhea, headache, fatigue and malaise. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that at least one case of a phototoxic reaction (an acute form of photosensitivity resulting in rashes, swelling and large blisters) has occurred.

    Contamination

    • The University of Florida's IFAS Extension notes that the potential exists for pesticide and heavy metal contamination in bee pollen. IFAS quotes a 1984 article by K. Benson, writing in "The Speedy Bee," that pollen may also contain pollens from other plants through cross-contamination, bee parts, small insects and "mummies and scales from bee diseases." Wax moths and mice can get into pollen stores as well.

    Fungi and Bacteria

    • IFAS reports that stored pollen can harbor bacteria and fungi that produce toxins, including aflatoxin, which may lead to liver damage and possibly liver cancer.

    Not a Panacea

    • A secondary danger due not so much to the pollen itself but to users is the risk of relying too heavily on bee pollen to protect or cure, while ignoring medical advice or not taking care of themselves. It is tempting to think one little substance is all you need to cure a long-standing ailment or prevent a chronic disease, but evidence has shown repeatedly that there are no "magic bullets." Do not stop taking medicines without speaking with your doctor, and don't assume you can avoid general good-health practices simply by eating bee pollen.

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