Maca is a plant that has been growing in popularity due to its potential to help with fertility, sex drive, stamina, and energy. Maca is a cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli, kale, and cauliflower), that comes from Peru. The root of the maca plant is often harvested for its great nutritional benefits. The maca root is typically ground up and sold as a nutritional supplement. People supplement with maca for many reasons; listed below are some of the great benefits of maca.
- Nutrition: One ounce of maca powder contains 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 133% of your daily Vitamin C, 85% of your daily Copper, 23% of your daily Iron, 16% of your daily Potassium, 15% of your daily Vitamin B6, and 10% of your daily Manganese
- Increased Libido: Maca has been touted to increase libido (sex drive) in men and women. This claim is backed up by several studies, including this one. This health benefit was found to reach its peak after only 6 weeks of maca consumption.
- Mood Boost: Maca contains flavonoids, which have been touted for psychological benefits. Maca consumption specifically has been found to reduce anxiety and depression, especially in menopausal women.
- Athletic Performance Boost: Maca powder has been shown to increase performance in athletic competitors – especially those in endurance sports. After 14 days of maca consumption, a study of 8 cyclists showed remarkable improvement in endurance racing performance.
- Improved Memory: Maca may even increase your mental performance! In Peru, maca root was traditionally used to boost children’s performance in school. In studies on rodents, maca was shown to increase memory for memory-impaired animals.
If you’re ready to try some Maca root, then you can find this nutritional supplement in most health stores. Some people enjoy the nutty and earthy flavor of maca, but some prefer to hide the flavor. You can easily add maca powder to your smoothies, oatmeal, or take it in a pill form. Just be sure to consult your doctor before introducing a new supplement into your diet.
Enjoy the benefits of this powerful supplement!
