Maca root

Maca root is a root vegetable native to Peru, which is part of the same plant family as radishes and turnips. It is rich in nutrients, meaning that it offers many health benefits.

 

Muscle strength and endurance

Maca root is often used by body builders and athletes, as it can strengthen muscles and boost levels of energy and endurance. It contains high quality protein, calcium, zinc and magnesium, which have all been found to improve athletic performance. It is also thought that maca root can help to reduce the recovery time needed after a workout.

 

Maca root can help to balance hormones in both men and women.

 

Hormone balance

Maca root can help to balance hormones in both men and women. Maca can stimulate the pituitary glands and hypothalamus, which help to regulate other glands in the body. One of the benefits of maca root for balancing hormones is that it responds to the needs of the individual. This means that rather than causing an increase or decrease of a certain hormone, it will regulate the production upwards or downwards, depending on what is required.

Menopausal women sometimes find that taking maca root is a good substitute for HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). It can also be used to relieve menstrual pain. As maca root can help to deal with hormonal imbalances, it is also useful for relieving menstrual symptoms such as mood changes and irritability.

Emotional health and mental clarity

Studies have shown that maca root can help to improve concentration skills. It is also recommended as a treatment for depression in some cases. It has been reported that maca root can act as a memory enhancer and be beneficial in relieving stress.

Aiding in weight loss

Maca root can help those who want to lose weight, as the nutrients present in maca can boost thyroid function, which in turn can increase the rate of fat burning. It is also beneficial for weight loss as it can increase energy levels, allowing those who are exercising as part of a weight loss plan to workout for longer.

 

Maca root is known for its energizing properties and is believed to boost energy levels

 

Improved overall health

The many vitamins and minerals found in maca root mean that it is beneficial for improving overall health. Maca root contains calcium, which is important for healthy teeth and bones, vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system, as well as B vitamins which are vital for the body to function properly.

Some of the fatty acids in maca root can act as fungicides and antiseptics, which can improve overall immunity. It also has antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties, which can protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease.

How to use maca root

Maca root is often taken as a supplement, usually in powdered form. This can be added to fruit juice, smoothies or energy drinks. It is also possible to take maca root in capsule form.

Although many who take maca root choose to use it as a supplement, the powder can also be added to recipes. In order to preserve the nutrients of maca in powdered form, it recommended that it is not cooked. Maca can be used in recipes for raw cereal bars, cold soups or salads.

 

Here’s a delicious and healthy maca root smoothie recipe for you:

 

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, frozen
• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 tablespoon maca root powder
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by adding the frozen banana, frozen blueberries, maca root powder, chia seeds, and unsweetened almond milk to a blender.
2. If desired, add a tablespoon of honey to sweeten the smoothie. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 289
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 11g
• Fat: 11g

Note: Nutrition information may vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.