Aug 16, 2012 • By Peter Roseberg •
Royal jelly is the substance secreted from the heads of workers bees that is used for the nutrition of the adult queen and the larvae. Because of its nutritious components, it is collected and commercially sold as a dietary supplement. Royal jelly is not only taken as an ordinary supplement, however, but is actually considered by many athletes an excellent health food that can enhance performance. The main component of royal jelly that makes it a supposedly excellent sports supplement are B-complex vitamins such as vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). And while it is mainly water (67% of it), it is also rich in crude protein (12.5%) and contains small amounts of amino acids, simple sugars, and fatty acids.
In Asia and Europe where it is usually sold in capsule or tablet form, royal jelly has been used for years as a longevity medicine. And this is not a surprise at all considering all the many health benefits it can bring. According to a recent study, the constituents of royal jelly make it a simple, yet effective and inexpensive alternative to commercial sports drinks andsupplements. The element is composed mainly of water, but also contains proteins and amino acids, which are essential for muscle building and development. It also contains lipids, pheromones, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Royal jelly is also considered to be antibacterial and also contains antibiotic components. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties and is considered an outstanding immune system-enhancing supplement. Additionally, in some animal studies done to test the effects of royal jelly, it has been found that the substance can significantly reduce serum cholesterol. In elevated levels, serum cholesterol can be a risk factor for coronary heart disease and thromboembolic stroke in men. In another study done, royal jelly has been found to reduce the accumulation of lactic acid in the body. The production of lactate is essential because it helps ensure that the energy production of the body is maintained during strenuous activities. Lactic acid is also an organic acid, however, and a very powerful one, and its accumulation can result to fatigue during trainings.
In an animal study conducted in 2001, researchers have found out that royal jelly alleviates fatigue in animal subjects after exposing them to some strenuous exercise. According to the study, however, the effectiveness of royal jelly is directly proportional to its freshness, which means the fresher the substance is, the more efficient it is in reducing fatigue.
The only downside of royal jelly is that it can cause serious, and sometimes fatal allergic reactions in individuals who have bee sting allergy. Perhaps the most common feature of this is an upset stomach, although it may also lead to life-threatening situations when left ignored. Overall, though, you cannot deny that this substance has so many health benefits, and can indeed be an excellent supplement for those who are involved in sports. For your safety, however, make sure you consult your physician first before taking this substance as supplement.
