Written by
Susan Tomassini
on
07/12/2016
Maca is a Peruvian root vegetable that looks a bit like a turnip and has been used as a food staple for thousands years by men, women, children and infants. It is known as a potent superfood as it can improve mood and energy, boosts the immune system and has many disease fighting properties. It is an adaptogen so gives your body whatever it is lacking and in need of. It is also known as “natures Viagra!!” but nature wouldn’t be that narrow minded and there are huge nutritional benefits beyond the bedroom!
One of the traditional uses of maca is for energy and endurance, for that reason athletes are now using maca with good results. But who needs to be an athlete to want more energy and endurance!
We add it to many of our smoothies, but it can also be added to cereals, desserts, yoghurts, in baking.
Some of the benefits for women:
· increases stamina and energy
· reduces symptoms of menopause
· balances hormones
· increases fertility rates
Some of the benefits for men:
· improves sex drive and performance
· improves glucose tolerance (aids fat loss and muscle gain)
· increases strength and stamina
· ramps up metabolism
· eases joint pain
Some of the benefits for children:
· improves concentration
· promotes mental clarity.
· boosts immunity
Maca has a high mineral content and is a natural source of calcium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, silica, it contains 19 amino acids, B vitamins and traces of iodine, manganese, copper and sodium.
Take 1-2 teaspoons of Maca a day, as it is quite potent. Start off with a small dose and gradually build up. Take a break from Maca powder every
4 weeks for 1 week to get maximum benefits. You can add maca to smoothies, juices, yoghurt, cereals, soups and homemade baked goods, cakes and desserts.
As maca is 100% natural there are no known side effects, however when introducing a new food especially one as potent as maca it is advisable to start on low doses and increase gradually.