When it comes to superfoods, maca root is an old root that is getting more attention right now. Native people in Peru have loved this simple food for hundreds of years because it gives them energy and is good for their health in general.
The market for maca extract was worth more than USD 57.24 million in 2022. It’s projected to be worth more than USD 90.64 million by the end of 2035, thanks to growth at a rate of 4% per year from 2023 to 2035. [Source]
More people in the US and around the world are switching to plant-based diets and looking for natural, nutrient-rich options. This is why these superfoods are becoming more popular.
This guide will look at the great nutrition in maca root, talk about its health benefits, and give you some ideas on how to use this superfood every day.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Maca root is related to broccoli, cauliflower, and radishes. In scientific words, it is called Lepidium meyenii. It’s small, but it’s full of good things for you that can help balance your diet.
The author of “The Lost Superfoods,” Art Rude, says that maca root is full of important vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. This food has a lot of vitamin C, copper, iron, and manganese, all of which are good for your health and make you feel good.
There are a lot of these great antioxidants in maca root. One dose gives you about 133% of what you need.
- Vitamin C: To keep your bones, blood vessels, and immune system healthy, maca root is very important. It gives you 85% of the copper you need every day.
- Copper: This important mineral can be found in large amounts in maca root. Your body needs it to make red blood cells and carry oxygen around.
- Iron: This trace mineral is found in large amounts in maca root. It helps, along with a lot of other enzymes and nutrients.
- Manganese: There are a lot of great nutrients and plant chemicals called macamides and macacins in maca root that can help you feel less tired and give you more energy.
Health Benefits
1. Energy and Vitality Booster
In Peruvian traditional medicine, maca root has been used for hundreds of years as a natural tonic and energy booster.
She also says that athletes and other active people love it because it’s known to boost energy and endurance.
Maca root not only gives you more energy, but it also helps you concentrate and focus your mind. That’s why it’s a great choice for students, workers, and anyone else who wants to improve their brain power.
2. Hormonal Balance and Reproductive Health
Some good things about maca root are that it can help keep hormones in check and improve sexual health. Some studies show that it may also help with menopause symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes, but we need to do more research to be sure.
Naturopath and author of “Maca: A Holistic Approach to Vitality,” Dr. Michael Lee, says that maca root has been used for a long time to help both men and women get pregnant. It may also help with fertility and sexual performance because it controls hormones.
Keep in mind that scientists are still trying to figure out how maca root changes hormones, so your results may be different. Before taking maca or any other vitamin, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or nurse, especially if you have health problems or take medicine.
Stress Management and Adaptogenic Properties
Maca root is good for you in more ways than one. It’s good for your hormones and nutrition, and it may also help your body adapt. These are just natural substances that help your body handle stress and keep everything in check.
Maca root has been used for a long time in Peruvian society to help the body deal with the challenges of living at high elevation and in harsh conditions.
It used to be. Its adaptogenic properties might help keep cortisol levels in check, which would make stress control and health in general better.
How to Add Maca Root into Your Diet
Maca root is a superfood that can be easily added to a wide range of tasty foods and drinks. It is very flexible and full of nutrients. There are some great tips and ideas from experts that can help you add it to your diet.
- You can easily add maca root powder to your diet; just mix it into smoothies, drinks, or baked goods.
- The root can be boiled, roasted, or added to stews or soups, just like potatoes or other veggies.
- It is easy to find maca root supplements in the form of capsules or tablets if you want stronger amounts.
If you want to add maca root to your diet, start with small amounts and add more as your body gets used to it. It seems like a good idea.
It is best to go slowly. To make sure they are pure and effective, she also stresses how important it is to buy organic maca root goods from reputable sources.
Before trying any new foods or vitamins, you should talk to your doctor. This is especially important if you are already taking medicine or have health problems.
Frequently Ask Questions
Should maca root be cooked before eating it, or can it be eaten raw?
A few experts say that lightly heating or cooking maca root before you eat it can help your body absorb the nutrients better and make it easier to digest. You could also eat it raw, though.
Can people who have thyroid issues take maca root?
Some people think that maca root might mess up your thyroid hormones. If you already have thyroid issues, you should probably talk to your doctor before trying maca.
How does maca root compare to rhodiola, ashwagandha, and other herbs that help the body adapt?
Astragalus, rhodiola, and maca root are all adaptogens. Ashwagandha and rhodiola are known for helping with stress and adrenal gland health, while maca root is known for helping with hormone balance and sexual health.
Can Maca Root Be Used Instead of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There is some evidence that maca root may help with menopause symptoms, but not as much as regular hormone replacement treatment. Before taking maca or any other vitamin, you should talk to a doctor or nurse.
Are there any ways that maca root might combine with prescription drugs?
Before adding maca to your meal plan, talk to your doctor if you are on antidepressants, hormone replacement treatment, or blood-thinning drugs. It’s always best to talk to a doctor or nurse first.
Is it okay for women who are pregnant or nursing to eat maca root?
Women who are pregnant or nursing should stay away from maca root until they hear from their doctor that it is safe to do so.
Can maca root be used to improve speed or endurance in sports?
Some studies show that maca root may help improve exercise ability and stamina. This may be because it makes people feel more energetic and less tired. But more study is needed to be sure of this.
For how long does it usually take to feel better after taking maca root?
Different people may feel the effects of maca root at different times. It might take a few weeks for some people to feel better about their energy or happiness, while for others it might take a few months.
Does the amount of maca root you can eat each day decide how much you can eat?
Maca root can be eaten in small amounts without any problems, but if you eat a lot of it, you might have trouble sleeping, headaches, or stomach problems. Just take the amount that your doctor or a reliable source tells you to.