Food is our body’s main source of energy. Three macronutrients in particular, namely, carbohydrates, proteins and fats, provide our cells with the fuel they need to perform their normal functions. Ensuring that our cells can function optimally allows us to perform our daily activities to the best of our abilities.
Aside from these macronutrients, some vitamins and minerals are also needed by our bodies to support healthy energy levels. B vitamins, for instance, are needed for converting carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy. [1] Vitamin C, iron, magnesium and iodine also play an important role in our body’s natural production of energy. [2][3]
Because of how important these nutrients are for maintaining our strength, it’s essential that we include as much nutritious foods in our daily diet as possible. Some dietary supplements can also help us maintain healthy energy levels throughout the day. One example of a potent energy-supporting supplement is maca root.
Health benefits of Organic Maca Root
Peruvian maca root offers plenty of other health benefits aside from supporting healthy energy levels. Here’s what studies have reported about supplementing with maca root:
It supports optimal brain function – Peruvian maca root contains high amounts of macamides, its signature active components. Macamides are said to be responsible for many of maca root’s health benefits, including its ability to support a healthy brain. According to a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the antioxidant macamides in Peruvian maca root can protect your brain from oxidative stress, which is heavily implicated in brain aging. [27] This protective benefit can help adults maintain already optimal cognitive performance, especially the elderly. [28]
It supports healthy immune function – Peruvian maca root is a great source of glucosinolates, which are sulfur-containing compounds found exclusively in cruciferous vegetables. Glucosinolates are broken down into isothiocyanates like BITC and indole-3-carbinol inside your body. [29] Studies show that isothiocyanates can support your body’s natural production of antioxidant enzymes, which help protect cells – including your immune cells – from harmful free radicals. [30] Meanwhile, indole-3-carbinol helps your immune system by supporting the healthy functions of certain immune cells. [31]
It supports optimal hormone balance – According to a study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Science, supplementing daily with Peruvian maca root can help you maintain healthy pituitary, thyroid and adrenal levels that are already within the normal range. [32] This benefit may be attributed in part to indole-3-carbinol, which has been shown to support optimal hormone balance, particularly in women. [33]
It supports healthy cardiovascular function – According to an animal study published in the journal Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, including Peruvian maca root in your daily diet is good for your heart as it can help you maintain healthy blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range. [34] A joint study by Australian and Chinese researchers also reported that regular supplementation with maca root can support healthy blood pressure levels that are already within the normal range. [35]
It supports optimal reproductive function – As reported by an article published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, modern clinical trials have also confirmed maca root’s ability to support healthy sexual function. [36] Researchers believe that Peruvian maca root’s reproductive health benefits are thanks to the unique combination of macamides, glucosinolates, alkaloids and other potent phytonutrients it contains.
It supports healthy stamina and endurance – One of the ways Peruvian maca root supports healthy stamina, endurance and energy levels is by keeping your mitochondria safe from harmful free radicals, courtesy of antioxidant macamides. Mitochondria are the membrane-bound organelles responsible for producing most of the chemical energy your cells need. [37] A study published in the journal Pharmaceutical Biology also found that a macamide in maca root called N-benzoyloleamide can help reduce fatigue caused by exercise. [38] This macamide has also been shown to support your body’s natural production of antioxidants, which help keep your brain, liver, mitochondria and muscles functioning optimally.
It naturally uplifts mood – Aside from its energy-supporting properties, Peruvian maca root is also known for its adaptogenic properties. Adaptogenic herbs like maca root can help you mount a healthy response to stress by supporting normal hormone functions. [39] Peruvian maca root can also naturally uplift your mood by supporting healthy anandamide levels that are already within the normal range. [40] Anandamide is an endocannabinoid produced by your brain that stimulates feelings of happiness. [41] Thanks to macamides and their biological activities in the brain, Peruvian maca root can help you maintain a positive mood.
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