Maca root is a plant grown in South America that is sometimes referred to as Peruvian ginseng. It commonly comes in powder form and has a nutty taste. Maca root is a good source of carbs, is low in fat and contains a fair amount of fiber. It’s also high in some essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, copper and iron.
Several studies have shown maca may be able to boost libido in men and women. (1) It may also improve menopausal symptoms, improve male fertility, and boost energy and vitality. (2), (3), (4)
To experience the health benefits of maca, try these delicious smoothie recipes.
Super Maca Shake
6-8 oz. organic unsweetened coconut milk (or similar)
1-2 Tbsp chia seeds
1 medium organic apple (I like honeycrisp), take core out and if you have a high speed emulsifying blender just throw the rest in, peel and all
¼ medium banana, frozen - try peeling, cutting up and freezing little pieces of banana and storing to be used as a sweetener for shakes (also improves texture) - if you are counting carbs then substitute a ¼ frozen avocado
2-3 tsp raw organic Maca powder
(opt. 2-4 chunks organic frozen mango)
(opt. 1 c greens - spinach or tatsoi)
4-5 black peppercorns
½ tsp cinnamon
6 oz. Greek yogurt (coconut or organic grass fed cow if you are not sensitive to dairy)
1 cup ice
** Variation - add 1-2 scoops of whey protein powder (vanilla flavor or plain) if you aren’t sensitive to dairy - whey is great for promoting muscle growth. Collagen protein to support connective tissue health is a good substitute if you don’t tolerate whey.
Blend and enjoy!
Chocolate Cherry Maca Shake
1 cup organic baby spinach
1 Tbsp pumpkin seeds (for zinc)
1 Tbsp raw organic Maca powder
(opt. 1 tsp organic Cordyceps powder for energy)
(opt. 2 T. cacao nibs)
2 scoops chocolate protein powder - whey powder for muscles or collagen powder for connective tissue (if you only have a plain/vanilla protein powder add 2 Tbsp of raw cacao powder for chocolate flavor)
1 Bartlet pear - halved and cored, cut into quarters - use just ½ of the pear if watching carbs
10 frozen dark cherries
1 cups ice
6-8 ounces liquid (water, coconut water, cashew milk, etc)
Blend and enjoy!
Let us know how you liked these recipes and share other ways you use maca in recipes in the comments below.
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