`
Introduction
Food supplements are becoming increasingly popular and sought-after for their potential to improve health and well-being. Among these supplements, royal jelly stands out for its unique benefits and its reputation as a 'superfood'. But what is royal jelly, what are its benefits and how can it be used as a food supplement? In this article, we'll explore in detail the origin of royal jelly, its health benefits and how to incorporate it into a healthy diet.
Origin of royal jelly
Royal jelly is a pale yellow substance produced by worker bees in honey hives. This substance is the exclusive food of bee larvae for their first three days of life, and is also consumed by the queen bee throughout her life. It is this special diet that enables the queen to live up to 40 times longer than other bees. Royal jelly is also responsible for her exceptional growth and fertility.
Royal jelly is a rare and precious substance, representing only 3-5% of the hive's total production. It is harvested by expert beekeepers who take care to take enough to ensure the survival of the colony, while leaving enough jelly for the queen and her larvae. The royal jelly is collected by hand, guaranteeing its quality and integrity.
Benefits of royal jelly
Royal jelly is rich in essential nutrients such as B vitamins, amino acids, minerals and enzymes. It also contains a large amount of protein, making it an ideal food supplement for vegetarians and vegans.
Because of its unique nutritional composition, royal jelly is known for its many health benefits. Here are some of the most common positive effects associated with royal jelly consumption:
- Strengthening the immune system : Royal jelly is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to strengthen the immune system by neutralising free radicals and reducing inflammation.
- Boosting energy : Thanks to its rich nutrient content, royal jelly can help combat fatigue and boost energy. It can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from chronic fatigue.
- Digestive health : Royal jelly has prebiotic properties that feed the good bacteria in the digestive system, which can promote healthy, balanced digestion.
- Hormonal regulation : Royal jelly contains essential fatty acids that help regulate hormones. In particular, it has been used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and the menopause.
- Stress reduction : The antioxidants in royal jelly can help reduce stress and anxiety by protecting brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress.
Use of royal jelly as a dietary supplement
Royal jelly is available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, infused honey or in its pure form. It is generally recommended as a 3-month course of treatment, with a daily intake of 300 to 500 mg.
It's important to note that royal jelly-based food supplements are not regulated by the health authorities, so it's essential to choose quality products from reliable sources. It is also advisable to consult a health professional before incorporating a new food supplement into your diet, to avoid any risk of allergy or interaction with medication.
Incorporating royal jelly into a healthy diet
As well as in the form of a food supplement, royal jelly can also be eaten directly by adding it to your daily diet. Here are some ideas for incorporating royal jelly into your dishes and drinks:
- Add a teaspoon of royal jelly to your morning smoothie for a nutritious boost.
- Use it as a natural sweetener in your coffee or tea.
- Mix it with honey and cider vinegar to make a nutrient-rich dressing.
- Add it to dessert recipes such as honey cake or cheesecake.
- Serve fresh fruit on a spoonful of royal jelly for a touch of elegance and health.
Conclusion
Royal jelly is a valuable and versatile natural ingredient that offers numerous health benefits. As a dietary supplement, it can help boost the immune system, increase energy, regulate hormones and reduce stress. Incorporated into a balanced diet, it can also be an excellent addition to provide our bodies with numerous nutrients. However, it is important to choose quality products and consult a health professional before adding a new food supplement to your diet.
Sources :
