Superfood Friday - MACA

Carmen Deacetis- Be Nutritious
Mar 20, 2015
2 min read

Maca

Maca is a cruciferous root that belongs to the radish family. It is known to provide energy, strength, and endurance. Maca is a potent, ancient Peruvian superfood used by indigenous Andean societies as a source of nourishment and healing for thousands of years. it has been called “Peruvian ginseng.” It is extremely rich nutritionally and contains 31 different minerals along with amino acids, antioxidants, & alkaloids. It is mostly used as a powder supplement in North America.

Maca has many health benefits including:

Maca is rich in vitamin B vitamins, C, and E. It provides plenty of calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and amino acids.
Increase your energy levels. It is also known for increasing stamina. Many athletes take maca for peak performance.
Maca is widely used to promote sexual function of both men and women. It serves as a boost to your libido and increases endurance. At the same time it balances your hormones and increases fertility.
Maca relieves menstrual issues and menopause. It alleviates cramps, body pain, hot flashes, anxiety, mood swings, and depression. If you are pregnant or lactating you should avoid taking maca.
Enhances your mood. If you find yourself overcome with anxiety, stress, depression or mood swings, maca may help alleviate these symptoms,
Increases resistance to disease and strengthens immunity.

Many uses for Maca

Add 1 tsp to your delicious smoothie or juice
Add ½ tsp to tea—especially chai blends, as the flavors complement each other.
Add 1 tsp to soup
Use as an alternative to coffee: Add 1 tsp to hot water and consume as you would coffee (add a sweetener like stevia or coconut sugar if desired)
Sprinkle on cereal (hot or cold)
Add to yogurt or applesauce, perhaps with a little cinnamon
Use in baking—substitute maca powder for one-quarter of the flour in any recipe (no more, or it might affect texture or consistency).