Spring has come early in the bay. All the flowers are blooming and pollen is rampaging through the streets dusting everything a nice shade of yellow. During this time, I try to sneak a teaspoon of bee pollen and/or local raw honey into our breakfasts.
What are allergies?
To fix allergies, we first need to know how they work. If you have an allergic reaction to something, your body has developed an immune response to the allergen. This creates antibodies. The antibodies activate certain receptors on your cells to release histamine. (If you've ever looked for allergy medication, then you know you're looking for an anti-histamine) Histamines are what cause your stuffy nose, watery eyes, sneezing etc. And, bee pollen reduces histamines!
This is a rudimentary explanation, here's something a little more scientific.
Plus, Bee pollen is not only an excellent way to fight allergies, it's also a super-food. It's a complete protein that aids in the recovery from chronic illness, helps reduces cravings, regulates intestines, builds new blood, fights disease, and even has antibiotic properties.
Yes, my bee pollen is in my honey jar. Oops.
Depending on your sensitivity level you can take up to 3 tablespoons a day. Gradually work your way up to that. It's best to take pollen with food - especially fruit. The fruit fibers will help activate the pollen. So, smoothies are the perfect vehicle.
Ideally, you'll want to start taking the pollen 6 weeks before your allergies start; so, you can build up an immunity. But, there's no time like the present. I bought my bee pollen at rainbow grocery in bulk. Check with your local co-op or health food store to see if they carry it. Bee pollen will keep in the fridge for a year.
If you are allergic to bee stings, proceed with caution. You could have an allergic reaction to bee pollen.
Allergy Fighting Smoothie + Immunity Boost
10 Minutes; Fills Three 16oz Mason Jars
- 1 Pineapple Cubed
- 1 Mango
- 2 Bananas
- 1/4 Cup of Nut Milk (water or regular milk would work as well)
- 1 Tablespoon of Bee Pollen
Blend all of the ingredients until smooth. Then compost your scraps! These smoothies freeze very well. Pull the smoothie out of the freezer and place in the fridge the night before you want to drink it. You will wake up to a smoothie at the perfect consistency.
But, let's talk about the other ingredients in this immune boosting smoothie. Both fruits are very high in vitamin C. One cup of pineapple has 131% of your vitamin C daily value, and one mango has 80% of your daily vitamin C. Mangoes are also very high in Vitamin A, vital to a healthy immune system.
Justin prefers not to mix fruits and veggies in his smoothies. But, this would be fabulous with two large handfuls of spinach. It would add an extra nutritious punch. Or even a carrot for a little extra beta-carotene.
Do you like greens in your smoothies? What are some of your home remedies for allergy season?
This may not completely replace allergy medicine. We still take it, but it has greatly reduced our consumption.
