Nestled in the high altitudes of the Peruvian Andes a root of great reverence and healing properties grows. This root is named Maca. Its nutritional makeup is extensive. It consists of mostly carbohydrates, a decent portion of protein and high levels of cellulose fiber. It has high amounts of amino acids and about 20 different fatty acids. It is loaded with thiamine (B1), which is necessary for the body to produce energy from carbohydrates. Maca also has a fair share of riboflavin, vitamin c and niacin. Maca has more calcium than milk and a decent amount of phosphorous, magnesium and potassium. It consists of trace minerals such as copper, zinc, manganese, iron, selenium and boron. To top it off, there are natural sterols in the plant which truly make it a powerhouse.
Maca is an apoptogenic plant, meaning it helps to balance hormones and give the body increased energy when it is low. Hormones regulate mood, energy, sex hormones and tissue function. If you are stressed and need to refuel maca can help you produce more energy. It’s been proven to decrease menopause symptoms, improve sexual function, increase fertility and enhance energy. In one study cyclists increased their endurance as well as their sexual function with just 14 days of supplementation (1).
Sources
- Stone M, Ibarra A, Roller M, Zangara A, Stevenson E. A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2009 December 10;126(3):574-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.012.
