What’s Maca? Is it right for you?

Some people are stressed these days, need a boost to their energy levels, mood, and mental state. If your hormones are out of whack, you may want to research maca since it is an alternative to HRT. Maca powder is a superfood, and several studies have shown that it can enhance your mood. It also helps you gain muscle, increases strength, and improves exercise performance. Lastly, it may enhance one’s memory, cognition, and brain function.

Just because it’s a superfood does not mean it’s right for everyone. Here’s the caveat since maca impacts the endocrine system that rules your body’s hormones. If you have a thyroid disorder, you may want to avoid it unless it’s Peruvian maca. Raw maca is a goitrogen and can slow down your thyroid gland.

80% of maca sold in the United States is not authentic Peruvian maca but from China and grown at a much lower altitude than in Peru. Growing maca at lower altitudes does not yield the same beneficial properties. The majority of supplements and products available in the United States are from raw maca, and not recommended for people with hypothyroidism. There’s been great success with Peruvian maca as an alternative to HRT therapy, peri, and post-menopausal and prostate health. Remember, all herbs are not created equal but heard many good reviews about a brand named Femmenessence.