As one of the ingredients in The Fit Protein, we thought it was about time we introduced you to Maca so that you can get to know all the benefits, and love this ingredient just as much as we do.
What is Maca root?
Maca is a plant, a vegetable in fact, that is also known as Peruvian Ginseng. The plant pretty much resembles a turnip, and is native to South America, specifically the Peruvian Andes. The root of the plant is commonly turned into a dried powder and used in supplementations (like ours!) and has been being used for thousands of years for it’s host of benefits.
The dried Maca root powder is also often mixed into protein shakes and smoothies for an extra nutritional kick. Yum.
What is Maca root?
Maca root is pretty simply the root of the Maca plant. Whilst it’s not the prettiest of ingredients (let’s be honest, what root vegetable is?) the root is what holds all of the plant’s nutritional benefit, so this is the bit we are interested in.
Most notably, the root was consumed to increase male fertility and our libido levels, but since then, it’s been found to increase energy and stamina – and that’s why we’ve put it in The Fit Protein.
What are the top Maca root health benefits?
Maca root benefits are pretty impressive (as we wouldn’t be using anything in our proteins that isn’t). We’ve listed them below for you so that you can see exactly what you’re gaining from maca root… don’t say we don’t treat you.
Maca root supplementation…
- Reduces your stress levels
Stresses are everywhere. From work to relationships and bills to chores, stress can be at our every turn, so anything that can reduce your stress levels is a huge winner in our eyes.
- Boosts endurance
Working on those fitness goals? Making your way through Couch to 5K? Training for that upcoming marathon? Maca root can help with that.
- Improves your overall mood
When you’re feeling good, everything else follows. From greater self-esteem, improved performance at work and higher energy levels, improving your mood is one of the most important steps to a healthier lifestyle.
- Increases your oestrogen levels
This is for all the women out there. Hormone imbalances suck.
Including Maca root in your diet not only means that your energy levels will increase, but your oestrogen levels will too. That’s right – your body is going to love it.
- Reduces instances and symptoms of erectile dysfunction
So we’ve covered the women, it’s time for you, men. If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction (which is perfectly normal, don’t sweat it), Maca root has been used for thousands of years to treat the symptoms of this.
Don’t believe us? Researchers from the journal of BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies conducted a database analysis of clinical trials surrounding the supplementation of Maca root when it comes to sexual dysfunction in both men and women. It was found that the Maca root greatly improved dysfunction in both genders, but particularly when it came to erectile dysfunctions.
- Reduces sun damage
Stay with us on this one. We’re not saying that applying your daily SPF isn’t necessary… far from it.
We’re just saying that one study found evidence to suggest that repeated use of Maca root on the skin has been seen to reduce dermal damage after a period of three weeks. Pretty cool.
- Is a great aphrodisiac
Implementing Maca root into your diet can get you well on your way to living your best sexually well life. If the stresses of everyday life are getting to you, or you just want to spice up your relationship a bit, Maca root could be the natural supplement for you.
Does Maca root have any side effects?
As a natural supplementation, Maca root is a great natural alternative to other energy-boosting substances such as caffeine, which can boost our anxiety levels if consumed in excess.
Whilst Maca root is pretty safe, though, we advise you to take it in the evening. Anything that gives you energy should be taken as far away from your bedtime as possible. Sleep is sacred. Fact.
References
- Shin, BC., Lee, M.S., Yang, E.J. et al.(2010). Maca ( meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC Complement Altern Med 10, 44. Click here.
