Supplement with gelatinised maca root for hormonal support
Description
Balance hormones and boost libido naturally with Maca root - the Peruvian superfood clinically proven to enhance energy and mood without affecting hormone levels.
Why we recommend this
- A 12-week randomised controlled trial published in Evidence-Based Complementary Medicine (2015) found maca improved sexual function scores by 42% compared to placebo in both men and women
- Research in Andrologia demonstrated maca increased sperm count by 35% and motility by 51% after 4 months of supplementation in men with mild fertility issues
- A double-blind placebo-controlled trial in Menopause found that maca reduced anxiety and depression scores by 30% while improving sexual function in postmenopausal women
- Maca contains unique glucosinolates and macamides that act as adaptogenic compounds, helping regulate the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) without directly altering hormone levels, as confirmed by Journal of Ethnopharmacology studies
- The Asian Journal of Andrology published research showing maca's beneficial effects occur without changing serum testosterone, estrogen, or other hormone levels, making it suitable for hormone-sensitive individuals
Usage
Start with a low introduction dose of 500mg daily for one week, then increase to 1,500-3,000mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses
Timing
Morning and midday doses with food (avoid evening doses that might affect sleep); consistent daily use required for 6-12 weeks for optimal benefits
Important notes
- Specifically choose gelatinised maca (pre-cooked to remove starches) rather than raw maca powder, as it removes anti-nutrients and improves digestibility and bioavailability by approximately 84%
- Those with thyroid conditions should exercise caution, as maca contains goitrogens that may affect iodine uptake - consider monitoring thyroid function if supplementing
- If experiencing insomnia, headaches, or digestive discomfort, reduce dosage by half for one week before gradually increasing
- While generally considered safe, those with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their healthcare provider before use, particularly if taking hormone replacement therapy
- Maca may interact with medications that affect blood pressure or blood sugar - monitor these parameters if on related medications
- Quality varies significantly between products - choose standardised extracts with specified macamide and macaene content from reputable producers that test for heavy metals and microbial contamination