If youre keen on health trends, you might be hearing the buzz around maca root.
So, what is maca root, wherecanyou find it, and is it worth seeking out?
Read on for everything you gotta know.
Credit: taka-omi / Getty Images
What is maca root?
When looking at the nutrient profile of this popular root, there are some good health benefits to highlight.
Here are just some of the nutrients that youll find in maca.
Credit:BHG / Joules Garcia
Plus, maca is rich in many amino acids, the building blocks for protein in the body.
Vitamin C is a key player in immune health and a potent antioxidant.
Generally, B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism within the body.
And maca root’s iron content also makes it beneficial since women are often low in this nutrient.
Should You Include Maca Root in Your Daily Routine?
So, what does the research show when it comes to the benefits maca can offer us?
Maca is full of beneficial macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and plant compoundsall benefits that improve overall health.
For these reasons alone, it can be a beneficial addition to your daily routine.
And one thing we do know is that maca root is an adaptogen.
Plus, on the topic of brain health, studies have found maca to have neuroprotective properties.
(But check in with a nutritionist or your doctor first.)
Gonzalez, Gustavo et al.
“Ethnobiology and Ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a Plant from the Peruvian Highlands.
“Evid Based Complement Alternat Med,2012, doi:10.1155/2012/193496
Da Silva Leitao Peres, Natalia.
“Medicinal effects of Peruvian maca (Lepidium meyenii): a review.
2020 Jan 29 doi: 10.1039/c9fo02732g
Boye, Kristen.
“Maca DosageHow To Take Maca For Maximum Benefit.
