Health benefits of Maca

By MiNDFOOD

Health benefits of Maca
What is Maca and why should you be incorporating it into your diet?

Next time you’re looking for an energy hit in the morning, instead of reaching for coffee, try adding some energising maca to your breakfast smoothie.

Maca is a Peruvian ‘superfood’. Grown 10,000 feet above sea level in the Andes, the root is said to be one of the highest altitude farmed crops.

The powder that is extracted from the root has a spiced, malty flavour that ads depth to hot chocolates or cakes and nourishing richness to smoothies.

A complete protein, Maca provides all of the essential amino acids and contains high levels of iron, magnesium, sodium, potassium and calcium.

The delicious superfood also contains a large amount of vitamins like E, B1, B2 and C.

What is so wonderful about this root is that due to its growth in harsh climates, Maca is an adaptogen. This means that, just as maca adapts and thrives within its region, when ingested, the root has a similar effect within the body. The powerful powder acts to normalise the body and assists in the body’s response to both external and internal pressures – like environmental factors, anxiety or even physical injuries.

Studies have shown that Maca’s adaptogenic compounds assist the adrenal glands and help to balance and regulate stress. This also acts to assist in the regulation of hormones.

Due to its power to help balance estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, consuming maca has also been known to reduce the severity of migraines and enhance the immune system.

Traditionally, Maca is consumed warm, either mixed through porridge or added to a warm milk or hot chocolate for a soothing and calming experience. You can also use maca in baking recipes or put a few tablespoons in your favourite smoothie for added health benefits.

Try this recipe for Espresso Breakfast Power Balls for a quick, easy and nourishing snack on the go. 

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