Royal jelly is a milky-white substance that is produced by worker bees and fed to the queen bee during the larval stage of her development. It is also sometimes fed to the larvae of other bees. Royal jelly is rich in nutrients and has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits in humans. Some of the nutrients found in royal jelly include:
- Protein: Royal jelly is a rich source of protein, which is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body.
- Lipids: Royal jelly contains lipids, which are fats and oils that provide energy for the body.
- Carbohydrates: Royal jelly contains small amounts of carbohydrates, which are the primary source of energy for the body.
- Vitamins: Royal jelly is a good source of vitamins, including vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
- Minerals: Royal jelly contains small amounts of minerals, including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- Enzymes: Royal jelly contains enzymes, which are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body.
- Amino acids: Royal jelly contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins.
- Flavonoids: Royal jelly contains flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant properties.
- Steroids: Royal jelly contains small amounts of steroids, which are important for the growth and development of the body.
- Alkaloids: Royal jelly contains small amounts of alkaloids, which are plant compounds that have a variety of physiological effects on the body.