Food Focus: Maca Powder

ByRuthie Guten

Food Focus: Maca Powder

Maca powder is a super food.  Dried maca root contains about 10% protein that is mostly obtained from amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. It is grown in the Andes Mountains and has historically been a valuable commodity to the indigenous people of the Andes Mountain region. It has been used for nutritional as well as medicinal purposes. Maca is also referred to as Peruvian Ginseng, because it is said to enhance fertility in both humans and animals. It is reported to stimulate the immune system, enhance memory, and increase stamina. It’s also used as an aphrodisiac. Although it is a super food, a little goes a very long way. The values shown below are for an amount of 100g. However, the typical serving size is only 0.8g (1/3 tsp).

  • Vitamins
    • Niacin – 29%
    • Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6) – 57%
    • Riboflavin –21%
    • Vitamin C – 475%
  • Electrolytes
    • Potassium – 57%
  • Minerals
    • Calcium – 25%
    • Copper – 300%
    • Iron – 82%
    • Manganese – 39%
    • Sodium – 1%

I add ½ teaspoon of maca powder to our smoothies. I also try to not use maca every day.

References:

http://rainforest-database.com/plants/maca.htm

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/custom/2193874/0?print=true

 

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