Maca’s benefits as a superfood have been valued for years, however just recently it has become a popular supplement and food ingredient in the health industry as more and more people are discovering its powerful benefits.
Below we break down what makes maca so special and how to incorporate it into the diet.
Top Benefits of Maca Powder
Maca Nutrients
Maca powder is rich in vitamin B, vitamin C and vitamin E. It also contains a lot of calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
As an added bonus, maca contains over 20 amino acids, including all 8 of the essential amino acids that our bodies need and cannot make on their own.
Maca Helps With Hormone Balance
Maca is an adaptogen superfood, which means that it helps the body to more easily adapt to and regulate any stress that is imposed upon it.
This is incredibly beneficial for those who suffer from hormone imbalances such as PMS, menopause and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms.
In these cases, maca helps to control the level of estrogen in the body, balancing it to a normal level and thus aiding in fertility, reproductive health and symptoms related to PMS, menopause and PCOS.
Maca Boosts Energy and Stamina
Maca has been claimed to help increase strength and muscle, boost energy and improve overall exercise performance.
A small study of cyclists revealed that after supplementing with maca for two weeks their finishing times of a 25-mile bike ride improved.
More studies still need to be performed to conclude the effects that maca has on strength.
Maca Boosts Mood
Those who regularly enjoy maca have claimed that it makes them feel more awake, driven and energized. As an added bonus, this energy does not come from caffeine, which means that there are no “jitters” of shakiness as a result of supplementation with maca.
Maca has shown to also have a positive influence on mood in clinical trials. It has also been linked to reduced anxiety and depression, specifically in menopausal women.
How to Use Maca?
Currently there are no known side effects of maca, however like with other supplements you should begin taking it slowly and in small amounts.
As little as 1/2 teaspoon is a good place to start, then progress daily until you reach roughly one tablespoon per day.
When it comes to incorporating maca into your diet, this can be easily done by adding maca powder to smoothies, baked goods, oatmeal and energy bars.
Where to Buy Maca From?
Maca is available in most health food stores and is found most often in powder form, however there are also supplements and extracts that are equally as effective.
Maca is best absorbed when it is gelatinized, so read the product labels to make sure that you are receiving gelatinized maca instead of raw maca.
When purchasing maca also buy from a reputable company to ensure that you are receiving 100% pure maca root without any additives or fillers.
Top 3 Maca Powder Supplements
Below are a few popular maca supplements that are above and beyond the rest in terms of quality and effectiveness.
Viva Naturals Organic Maca Powder
Viva Naturals Organic Maca Powder is a certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan friendly maca powder.
Gelatinized for enhanced absorption by the body, Viva Naturals Organic Maca Powder can be purchased in either an 8-ounce size or a one pound bag.
Grown and harvested in the rich soil of Peru, this maca powder has a naturally nutty flavor that pairs well with oatmeal, smoothies and baked goods.
Soul Organics Maca Powder
Soul Organics Maca Powder is a 100% organic maca powder that is sustainably grown and taken directly from farmers with fair trade practices, which means that you can purchase Soul Organics Maca Powder with the peace of mind that it is a quality company with quality products.
Soul Organics Maca Powder also plants a tree for every product that is sold so you are also giving back to the environment by purchasing this maca powder!
As an added bonus, Soul Organics Maca Powder comes with a 100% no questions asked, money back guarantee if you are unsatisfied with your purchase.
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Maca Powder
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Maca Powder is grown on small, family farms in Peru where the maca is harvested and then slowly dried and milled to preserve nutrients.
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Maca Powder is made by extracting the starch from the maca root, making it more digestible and thus the nutrients more bioavailable to be absorbed by the body.
Created in a certified organic facility, Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Maca Powder is loaded with vitamins, minerals and plant sterols.
Conclusion
Maca powder is a fantastic superfood to include in your diet. Whether you add it to your afternoon smoothie or morning bowl of oatmeal, maca provides a variety of health benefits that you don’t want to miss out on!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.Rachel Skinner
Rachel Skinner is a Nashville-based dietitian & nutritionist, media personality, speaker, and consultant. She has been a health and fitness writer since 2006. Rachel Skinner is a huge advocate of healthy living and when she's not writing for her health blog, you will probably find her at the gym!
