We’ve been talking a lot lately about Maca, and the way that many folks are using this wonderful root to be able to increase their odds of getting pregnant. Today, we want to take a look at some of the other things that Maca can do for you. As it turns out, Maca is much more than a fertility booster, and even after you’ve had a baby you might consider using Maca supplements on a regular basis.

First off, you need to understand that Maca is an adaptogen. What that means is that it contributes to your overall sense of health and well-being. It does so through a number of different processes, all having to do with the particular nutrients found in Maca.

For example, Maca interacts with your nervous system. Nutrients like essential fatty acides, calcium, Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B12,  and even phosphorus all work to calm the nervous system.

Some of those same nutrients, including calcium, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B12 and the fatty acids also help to improve your digestion. In some cases, they will also help to keep your appetite at the right level for optimal health.

Maca also uses calcium, Vitamin C and sterols to help build your muscles and to increase your overall physical endurance. It has alkaloids that help to absorb nutrients and put them to use where they are needed.

Here are some of the other potential benefits of Maca that have been discussed, and that are being studied:

• The glucosinolate and fiber in Maca may help to combat cancer
• Calcium, combined with alkaloids, can help reduce the risk of conditions like rickets and osteomalacia
• The terpenoids and saponins in Maca may help with pain relief, cough, relaxation and even serve to fight tumors.
• Some people notice an increase of energy, endurance and stamina while using Maca.
• Maca may also improve sexual function for both men and women, in addition to the fertility benefits we’ve discussed previously.
• There may be some ways in which Maca helps to enhance your memory, as well as your overall cognitive well-being.

This entry was posted on Friday, October 29th, 2010 and is filed under Fertility.