Maca Powder, the Good the Bad and the Healthy

There has been a love of buzz in the health food world lately about Peruvian "miracle food" Maca (Lepidium meyenii). Rich in calcium, iodine, and manganese; Maca is known for its energy and libido boosting properties. It is used by couples trying to conceive as it beneficial for both men and women's reproductive health and libido. It is also used by menopausal women to ease the side effects of menopause and is used to ease anxiety and mood swings especially associated with PMS. If you are feeling fatigued or anxious Maca may be for you, however, it is important to see how your body reacts to Maca before you make it a permanent staple in your diet...
Wong, Cathy. "Maca - What you should know about it." About.com <http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsupplementguide/a/maca.htm>

It is important to start slow and see how Maca effects YOU...

The evidence on Maca powder goes both ways. It is very important to start out slowly and make sure the Maca powder is not negatively affecting you. For women you may want to only take/use Maca on certain days during your monthly cycle. It can be very beneficial for women going through menopause. If you are taking Maca and are experiencing: Racing heartbeat, panic attacks, anxiety, mood swings, or nausea STOP TAKING MACA IMMEDIATELY! It can be very helpful for anxiety in some people it can also go the other way, as with any supplement/food/spice make sure you are paying attention to your body and adjusting your diet for what YOUR body needs! One blogger suggested taking a day or two off from taking Maca each week to make sure you don't over do it! If you have any heart problems or health issues or medication that you even THINK may react poorly with this supplement please consult your doctor!

"A Word of Caution on Maca Powder." HighonHealth.org. <http://www.highonhealth.org/what-nobody-tells-you-about-maca-root-powder-dangers-and-side-effects/>

*Disclaimer - I am not a doctor or a medical professional. I have had good experiences with Maca- I take it daily during the week in my morning smoothies (I do not take/eat it on the weekend, a break is suggested). I have noticed a boost in energy and lowered anxiety. Please be careful when adding any supplement to your diet, consult your doctor and pay attention to your body!