The Many Health Benefits of Maca Root
The Peruvians started cultivating maca around 3,000 years ago in the Andes Mountains. Today it also grows in Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia. Maca root is a cruciferous vegetable and belongs to the cabbage and kale family. The root, which is the edible part, looks like a cross between a potato and radish and tastes somewhat like butterscotch.
The Peruvians have used maca root since the time of the Incas for its healing properties. Today, it has gained a lot of buzz as a superfood. Here are some benefits associated with this ancient root:
Provides essential nutrients
Maca has quite the nutrition-rich profile; and is rich in iron, iodine, calcium, copper, potassium, fiber, amino acids and vitamins. It supports energy levels and may relieve general fatigue.* Maca powder has become a popular choice among athletes because of its energy-boosting properties. It also may help you gain muscle mass and enhance performance.* It is an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to the body's needs, helping it live a well-balanced life.
Improves Mood
Maca root contains flavonoids, which are known for their psychological benefits. Maca has been associated with providing relief from stress and mood swings. It has also been said to promote a positive mood.*
Increases libido and fertility in men
Ancient Peruvians already knew what has now been scientifically (1) established about maca's benefits in increasing libido in men. Maca root is also helpful for men who have erectile dysfunction.*
Relieves symptoms of menopause
When women's estrogen levels go down during menopause, they experience symptoms like hot flashes and poor sleep. The use of maca powder (2) is shown to alleviate these symptoms by balancing hormone levels.* It also may help with osteoporosis, which develops in some menopausal women.
Improves Learning and Memory
There are ongoing studies(3) that indicate maca's role in improving memory, concentration and aiding in learning*. Although Peruvians believe that the maca root boosts memory, it still needs a lot of research.
Fights free radicals
The antioxidants in maca root may help fight free radicals, which cause damage to the body. This makes maca an effective superfood to support cardiovascular health.*
Today maca is dried and ground to make maca powder, which is available worldwide. FeelGood™ offers non-GMO, gluten free and vegan-friendly Maca Root Powder for all of the reasons listed above. We love to add to our smoothies or mix it into oatmeal for a delicious breakfast.
Have a favorite maca root recipe? Share it in the comments below! Or show us your recipe on social media with #FeelGoodLifestyle!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2928177/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21840656/
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115300162