What Is Maca Powder And What Are Its 7 Benefits?
Maca powder is one of the most popular herbal remedies in South America and is used in everything from smoothies to chocolate bars. This article explores seven benefits associated with consuming this powder regularly.
Here’s everything you need to know about this nutrient-packed superfood:
What Is Maca Powder?
Maca powder is a root vegetable that is grown in Peru and Bolivia. It has been used for centuries as a food and medicine. Maca is known to be a source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and plant sterols (which help lower cholesterol).
You can it added to smoothies, oatmeal or pancakes for an extra energy boost in the morning!
1. It May Help Your Body Cope With Stress:
This powder helps the body cope with stress, which can be caused by many things–work, family relationships and so on.
Maca contains an amino acid called tryptophan that helps produce serotonin (the feel-good hormone) in your brain. It may explain why some people report feeling happier after taking maca supplements or eating them as part of their diet.
2. It Can Balance Hormones:
It is also a good source of iodine, which is important for thyroid health. The thyroid gland regulates hormones, so it’s no surprise that maca has been shown to help balance hormone levels.
Maca has been used historically as an aphrodisiac and fertility enhancer because of its ability to balance hormones in both men and women. Some studies show that maca can increase sperm count by up to 200%!
3. It May Improve the Mood:
Maca powder is also known for its ability to help with mood, sleep, stress and anxiety.
The reason why maca may improve your mood is that it contains several phytonutrients called “lignans” that can enhance serotonin levels in your brain
(1). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate things like depression and anxiety symptoms
(2). You can think of it as being similar to Prozac–but without all the side effects!
4. It May Boost Energy Levels And Endurance:
It is a great source of energy, and it can help you have more energy for workouts. Maca is also said to be able to increase endurance and stamina, which may be beneficial if you’re trying to run long distances or lift weights for an extended period.
You might experience the benefits right away after taking maca powder in some form (such as capsules or tea), but others say that they notice their energy levels increasing over time as they continue consuming this natural supplement.
5. It Can Help You Lose Weight:
Maca powder is a good source of protein and dietary fibre, which can help you feel full longer. It’s also rich in minerals and vitamins like B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3), vitamin C and zinc.
Maca contains high levels of phytochemicals called macamides that have been shown to aid weight loss by increasing energy expenditure.
In addition to its ability to boost your metabolism, maca root is also rich in essential fatty acids like omega-3s, which help reduce inflammation alongside other antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol. These nutrients may help lower cholesterol levels while lowering blood pressure as well.
6. Maca May Improve Bone Health And Reduce Menstrual Pain:
Maca is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. Maca contains vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption. Studies show that maca may improve bone health and reduce menstrual pain in otherwise healthy women.
7. Maca Relieves PMS Symptoms In Women, Including Cramps And Mood Swings:
Maca may help relieve symptoms of PMS, including mood swings and cramps. Maca is a root vegetable that grows in the Andes Mountains of Peru, where it’s traditionally used by local communities to treat various health conditions. In a study of 4 women, maca decreased PMS symptoms. The women took 3.5 grams (g) of maca each day for 6 months. All the participants experienced fewer mood swings, less anxiety and depression, and reduced irritability during their periods.
Conclusion
Maca powder is a healthy plant food that can help with stress as well as other health concerns. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals that support your body in many ways. It is a good source of calcium, iron and potassium. It also contains vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B5. Maca can help balance hormone levels in menopause and decrease symptoms associated with PMS.
