Does anyone take maca root

The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Maca has a hot-shot reputation in the wellness community, but the reality is a little more nuanced. Maca, or Lepidium meyenii , is a plant in the cruciferous vegetable family like kale and Brussels sprouts known for its purported adaptogenic properties or ability to help your body adapt to and cope with stress.

Also known as Peruvian ginseng, maca is grown in the Andes mountains at a high altitude Gonzales, Generally, the root—which can be red, yellow, black, or white and resembles a radish or turnip—has been used in medicines. But there is research to suggest the root may increase sex drive Gonzales, , improve male fertility and semen quality by boosting sperm motility and concentration Melnikovova, , and alleviate some menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction Brooks, While the supplement does offer a lot of potential health benefits, there are some maca side effects you should be aware of.

While most are powders, you can also find extracts and liquids. Any products made from red maca or black maca may have slightly different health benefits than those made from yellow versions of this root.

All in all, very few people need to avoid maca. If you plan on trying the herbal supplement, it may be best to work into a morning smoothie or shake to allow plenty of time before bed. Roman Testosterone Support supplements. The Brassicae family has a lot to offer in terms of health benefits.

Maca root, like its cruciferous cousins cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli, contains goitrogens Bajaj, , substances that could interfere with the normal functioning of your thyroid gland. The treatment or management of many of these conditions requires patients to work with their healthcare providers to closely monitor and control estrogen levels. Maca could make these conditions and their symptoms worse by affecting hormone levels.

In fact, for healthy postmenopausal women, one small study has found that maca can improve sexual dysfunction and alleviate psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression—without affecting serum estradiol levels Brooks, For example, a study found that maca could improve memory in mice. A review of the literature suggested that maca may have benefits for learning and memory performance. However, only research on animal models is currently available, so it is unclear whether maca will have the same benefits in humans.

Maca is not currently associated with any health risks in most people and is unlikely to cause any side effects in moderate doses. However, due to its effect on hormones, people with thyroid problems should avoid taking maca. It is also better to avoid taking maca when undergoing treatments that modify hormonal levels, such as treatments for breast cancer. Maca has a range of potential health benefits, particularly for sexual health.

However, the evidence behind these health benefits is weak, as many studies used small sample sizes or animal models. Researchers need to carry out more large-scale studies in humans to determine if maca is effective. Although there are few health risks associated with taking maca, most people can try maca without experiencing any adverse side effects. If a person is interested in trying maca root, they can find supplements in some natural food stores or online.

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Ten benefits. Share on Pinterest Studies suggest that maca root may help increase libido. Known as an adaptogen, it helps the body respond and adapt to stress, provides resilience to the nervous system and supports the master glands hypothalamus and pituitary that determine all of our hormonal responses.

Regular consumption of maca powder can help those struggling with stress related conditions to rebalance their health, improve wellbeing and build resilience to stress in the future. There are many clinical studies to show the benefits of maca powder including energy [i] , mood and mental health, [ii] hormone balance including reducing symptoms of menopause and PMS, [iii] improving fertility, [iv] metabolic function, [v] sexual dysfunction and libido [vi] and in reducing levels of inflammation.

Red maca for example is most effective for improving bone density [viii] and female fertility [ix]. In contrast black maca was shown to be the most effective for improving memory function, learning ability, brain clarity [x] and athletic performance.

It is used for general balance, well-being, resilience to stress and improving thyroid function. For most women we recommend using a specially formulated blend of maca called Maca for women. It is a scientific blend of the best of all three colours; red, yellow and black Maca in ideal ratios to balance female hormones and health. Maca for women is effective for mild-moderate hormonal imbalances and can also be used to naturally regulate menstrual cycles to improve female fertility.

It is safe during pregnancy and breast feeding and also can be used to help women struggling with post-natal depression. For older women it can be taken daily to assist with transitioning through menopause and improving bone density and circulation. Maca powder has a sweet and malt caramel flavor that combines well with fruits, spices, and bitter foods like cacao.

It makes a great addition to your morning smoothie, bircher or porridge and pairs very well with little bird organics Golden Almond Everything Breakfast. You can also have maca the traditional way by using it as a tea, infused with cinnamon, cloves and dried fruit or blend it into a hot latte. Ideally you want to consume a teaspoon per day for a minimum of weeks to get the full health benefits. Trans, Journal of Functional Foods, Beneficial effects of Lepidium meyenii Maca on psychological symptoms and measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women are not related to estrogen or androgen content.