Superfoods Revealed: Maca Root- Everything You Need to Know

You hear the word thrown around a lot- Superfoods! What are they, who needs them and why should you care? All great questions- I am going to answer them for you today!

Though there are no medical or legal definitions- Superfoods are naturally derived, pack a major nutrient dense punch and have the ability to improve your overall health! Superfoods are energy boosting, alkalizing, can help regulate hormones, lower blood pressure, increase libido, relieve inflammation and are all natural.

There are many different kinds of Superfoods on the market- Chia Seeds, Maca Powder, Hemp Hearts, Spirulina, Goji Berries, Bee Pollen, Flax Seeds, Chlorella and Cacao Nibs to name a few. If you are not familiar with these Superfoods- you aren’t alone! When I tell most people what I put in my Smoothie’s they look at me like I have 2 heads- its not until I tell them WHY I add them to my daily diet that it clicks for them.

I use supplements as a compliment to my daily diet- they provide my body with nutrients and benefits I just can’t get- no matter how much kale I eat 😉

For example, if I feel myself getting moody and hormonal I will ALWAYS start a Maca Powder routine. Maca is a root that belongs in the radish family and is just incredible! 

It helps me to relieve PMS symptoms (think cramps, bloating, irritability) , brightens my mood and is a plant-based form of B12! Here are some other properties of Maca: encourages muscle growth, boosts fertility, rich in protein, clears acne and promotes sexual function.

Maca is most readily available in a powder form- and as far as dosage goes- less is more! I average between 1/2 a teaspoon and 1 teaspoon per smoothie or bowl of oatmeal. It just depends on how I am feeling. If you are being treated for any  hormone issues or have adrenal concerns definitely talk to your doctor before introducing Maca.

It has an earthy, malty, almost nutty flavor and pairs up perfectly with almost any smoothie, smoothie bowl, chia pudding or oat recipe.

I store my Maca in an airtight container in the pantry- and it keeps great! It is readily available at most health food stores- so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding it.

Now that you know about Maca- are you ready for a Smoothie recipe you can try? Stay tuned… on my next post I am going to share one of my most popular “Superfood Smoothie” recipes. You don’t want to miss it!