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Natural food supplements are foods (or food by-products) that provide health benefits. These foods are high in nutrients and most of them aid digestion which in turn promotes good health.
photo credit: david.nikonvscanon
A few years ago I did extensive research on this topic since eating super-nutrient foods sounded like a better option than purchasing manufactured supplements. Vitamin B12 was the main nutrient for which I was unable to find a substitute in a natural source. Brewer’s yeast does contain some, but only in small quantities.
Of course, taking these as my only supplement required more diligence than I am capable of, so I didn’t stick with it very long. However, it did give me a good basis for choosing good ingredients to add to my morning drink and hot cereals.
BEE POLLEN, BEE PROPOLIS, AND ROYAL JELLY
Bee Pollen
A granular material produced by the anthers of flowering plants and mixed with secretions from the bee. Bee pollen is composed of protein, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, amino acids, essential fatty acids, enzymes, carotene, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, sodium, plant sterols and simple sugars.
Fresh pollen should not cling together or form clumps and should be purchased in a sealed container. Two teaspoons daily is the usual dose. Mix with juice or honey or add to cereals.
Bee Propolis
A product collected by bees from the resin under the bark of certain trees and used by them in the construction of hives. It is natural antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal substance. It is thought to stimulate phagocytosis in destroying infection-causing microbes.
Bee propolis is rich in bioflavonoids, amino acids, copper, magnesium, silicon, iron, manganese and zinc. It comes in a thick form for applying locally to warts, herpes lesions, acne, mouth and other sores. For internal use there is a lighter, soluble concentration that can be mixed with liquids. It can also be purchased as capsules. The usual dosage is 500 mg daily.
Used internally, Bee propolis is useful for stomach ulcers; respiratory infections; gum, mouth and throat disorders; and lessening the risks of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis.
Royal Jelly
Royal jelly is a thick, milky substance that is secreted from glands of a special group of young nurse bees between their sixth and twelfth days of life. Royal jelly is naturally created within the young bee when honey and pollen are combined.
Royal Jelly contains every nutrient necessary to support life, containing all the B-complex vitamins (especially high in B5 and B6), minerals, enzymes, hormones, eighteen amino acids, antibacterial and antibiotic components and vitamins A, C, D, and E. It is the only natural source of pure acetylcholine which promotes nerve transmission in the body. Because of the rich source of vitamins and minerals, Royal Jelly is used for its antiseptic, anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties.
As a product, royal jelly must be combined with honey or freeze dried to preserve its potency. It spoils easily and should be kept refrigerated in a tightly sealed container. As little as one drop of pure, extracted fresh jelly can deliver an adequate daily supply.
LECITHIN
Lecithin is a type of lipid (fat) that is needed by every cell in the body. Cell membranes, protective sheaths around the brain and spinal cord, and muscle and nerve cells all contain lecithin.
Lecithin is derived from soybeans and eggs. It consists mostly of choline, but also contains linoleic acid and inositol. Other sources of lecithin include brewer’s yeast, grains, legumes, fish and wheat germ. Lecithin granules can be sprinkled on cereals and soups or added to juices or breads.
Principle Functions:
1. Helps prevent arteriosclerosis and protects against cardiovascular disease.
2. Improves brain function.
3. Aids in the absorption of thiamine by the liver and vitamin A by the intestine.
4. Is needed to help repair damage to the liver caused by alcoholism.
5. Promotes energy.
6. Enables blood fats to be dispersed in water and removed from the body.
7. Valuable for the elderly and for anyone taking niacin for high cholesterol.
BREWER’S (NUTRITIONAL) YEAST
Yeasts are single-celled organisms that multiply rapidly and can be grown on various media. Brewer’s yeast, also known as nutritional yeast, is grown on the herb, hops. Torula yeast is grown on blackstrap molasses or wood pulp. Do not confuse this with baking yeast.
Nutritional yeast can be mixed with food or juice or water. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, amino acids and at least 14 different minerals. It is especially high in chromium which makes it effective in improving blood sugar metabolism and in reducing serum cholesterol levels.
Brewer’s yeast helps with wound healing due to increased production of collagen. It has anti-oxidant properties which also enhances healing. It improves skin texture and is helpful in removing blemishes so it has been used as a natural facial mask.
BLACKSTRAP MOLASSES
This form of molasses is the residue that is left after the last extraction of sugar from the cane or beet. It contains more calcium than milk, more iron than eggs, more potassium than any food, and is an excellent source of B vitamins. It is also rich in copper, magnesium, phosphorus, pantothenic acid, inositol and vitamin E. It is a good source of natural sugar. One tablespoon can be added to warm milk or water.
