Functional properties of stingless bee honey and pollen: A review of their neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v14i7.49202Keywords:
Neurodegenerative disease, Free radicals, Meliponines, Prevention.Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are the leading cause of dementia in the elderly, accounting for up to 70% of cases. With global population aging, the number of people affected by dementia is expected to triple by 2050. These diseases lead to episodic memory loss, progressing to cognitive and motor impairment, ultimately requiring intensive care. Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between the production and elimination of free radicals, plays a key role in neurodegeneration. This study aims to review the literature on the antioxidant compounds present in stingless bee honey and pollen and their potential neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases. A literature review was conducted using databases such as Scielo, Google Scholar, and PubMed, prioritizing articles published in English and Portuguese. The reviewed studies suggest that the regular consumption of honey and pollen from stingless bees may provide long-term benefits for brain health, highlighting their potential role in the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions. It is therefore concluded that honey and pollen from stingless native bees emerge as promising natural sources of antioxidant compounds with neuroprotective potential, reinforcing the need for further research into their role in the prevention and delay of neurodegenerative disease progression.
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