Super Food Spotlight: Maca
Today on super food spotlight I want to talk about MACA.
what is maca
Maca is a root vegetable found in the Andes in Peru, and is also known as Peruvian Ginseng. It is a close relative of the radish, and can have purple, yellow, or black.
Why we love maca
It offers sustainable energy throughout the day without the crash you can experience with caffeine.
It helps to balance hormones, and is an endocrine adaptogen. This means that it contains the nutrients that are needed to support normal hormone functions, but doesn’t contain any hormones itself.
Helps reduce stress, and support the adrenals
Maca supports the livers natural detoxification process. This is key for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis,
It packs a nutritional punch, and contains many vitamins, and minerals including vitamin C, copper, zinc, calcium, and iron
It is known to boost libido and has been considered nature’s viagra
Can help assist the body through hormonal changes including menopause, PMS, and more.
How do you take Maca
Look for gelatinzed Maca - this has nothing to do with gelatin, but referes to the heating process that breaks down the starches in the root. Maca that has been gelatinzed is easier to digest!
You can add Maca powder to smoothies, baked goods or other snacks. You can also take in a pill form. My favorite way to get Maca in is with the Maca Latte - recipe below!
Maca Latte
The Maca Latte takes a total of about 4 minutes to make, is sugar free, and can be completely customized.
1 Cup Boiling Water
1/2 Cup Nut Milk of Choice ( I like to use my creamer)
1 - 6 TSP Maca ( you can work your way up to 6 over time - I currently take 3 TSP. in my latte)
1 TBSP Coconut Oil
Splash of Vanilla
A Pinch of Cardamon, Cinnamon, Turmeric, and Salt ( all optional, but delicious!)
Add all ingredients into the blender and blend until foamy. Enjoy!
This is not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your doctor to make sure Maca is a supplement that is safe for you.