Are you looking for a natural way to boost your child’s energy, concentration, and overall health? Look no further than maca powder!
This nutrient-dense superfood has been a staple in Peruvian diets and medicine for centuries, and it’s gaining popularity worldwide for its numerous health benefits.
But can kids have maca powder? The answer is yes! In fact, maca can be a great addition to your child’s diet, helping to improve their mental clarity, mood, metabolism, immune system, and even sports performance.
In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of maca powder for kids and how to incorporate it into their meals in a fun and delicious way.
So let’s dive in!
Can Kids Have Maca Powder?
Yes, kids can have maca powder! Maca is a nutrient-dense superfood that is rich in essential amino acids, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and many more nutrients that are essential for growing children.
In fact, a 1997 study done in Peru showed that children aged 1-6 who suffered from malnourishment and anemia showed marked improvement in their conditions upon taking maca for a period of 1 month.
Maca is also known to improve mental clarity and concentration, making it a great addition to your child’s breakfast to improve their energy and concentration levels throughout the day.
What Is Maca Powder And Why Is It Beneficial For Kids?
Maca powder is a root vegetable that is native to the Andes Mountains of Peru. It has been used for centuries by the Quechua people for its medicinal properties and as a staple food in their diet. Maca powder is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, iodine, and many more.
Maca powder is also a great source of carbohydrates, alkaloids, bio-available plant protein, lignin, and cellulose that are good for intestinal function. The high fiber content provides a healthy digestive and elimination system. It also contains essential fatty acids, which nourish the nerves and provide a stronger nervous system.
Maca powder has been shown to boost energy levels and increase stamina in children. Studies have shown that children who consume maca achieve better results in academic and sports activities. Maca also regulates hormone balance, which is especially important for teenage children who may experience hormonal imbalances.
Maca powder is also beneficial for children with skin issues such as acne, sensitivity, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc. It helps to make the skin withstand extreme temperatures and protects it from the sun or frostbite.
Is Maca Powder Safe For Children To Consume?
According to experts, maca powder is safe for children to consume. However, it is important to note that the dosage for children is less than that of adults. The Maca Team recommends a daily dosage of 1 gram of gelatinized maca powder for children aged 1-2 years old and 2 grams for children aged 3-7 years old with low hemoglobin levels, for one month. This dosage is sufficient to substitute macro and micronutrients necessary for recovery and maintaining overall health and productivity in children.
It is also worth noting that maca powder is a rich source of essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, sodium, copper, silicon, and bismuth. These minerals are important for the overall health and growth of children. Additionally, maca powder is known to regulate hormone balance, which can be helpful in treating various skin problems like acne, mood swings, and depression.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing maca powder into your child’s diet. While maca powder is generally safe for consumption, every child’s body is different and may react differently to the superfood.
How Much Maca Powder Should Kids Consume?
When it comes to how much maca powder kids should consume, it is important to note that maca hasn’t been tested for safety in children or people who are pregnant or lactating. Due to this lack of information, it should not be used in these groups.
For children who are not in these groups, the recommended daily dose of maca powder is 1 gram for children aged 1-2 years old and 2 grams for children aged 3-7 years old with low hemoglobin levels, for one month. This dose is sufficient to substitute macro and micronutrients necessary for recovery and maintaining overall health and children’s productive capacity.
It is important to note that maca powder should not be consumed in excess, as with many other supplements. Maca is generally considered safe as a food or as a supplement if you don’t take more than 3 grams (less than a teaspoon) a day for up to 4 months. However, more tests are needed to know if and at what doses it can cause harm in pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with liver or kidney diseases.
It is always recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before giving maca powder to your child, especially if they are on any hormone treatments. When incorporating maca powder into your child’s diet, start with a small amount and gradually increase the dose over time.
How To Incorporate Maca Powder Into Your Child’s Diet?
Incorporating maca powder into your child’s diet is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions:
1. Add it to their breakfast: Start by adding a little maca powder (one-quarter teaspoon, for example) to your child’s breakfast. You can mix it into their oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie for an added nutritional boost.
2. Mix it into a juice: If your child enjoys drinking juice, you can mix maca powder into their favorite juice. This is a great way to introduce them to the taste of maca powder.
3. Blend it into a smoothie: Maca powder blends well into smoothies and can be easily masked by other flavors. Try blending it with fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries for a delicious and nutritious treat.
4. Give them capsules: If your child is a picky eater or doesn’t like the taste of maca powder, you can give them maca capsules instead. These are easy to swallow and provide all the same benefits as the powder.
Remember to start with small amounts of maca powder and gradually increase the dosage as needed. It’s also important to consult with your child’s pediatrician before adding any new supplements to their diet.
Delicious Maca Powder Recipes For Kids.
If you’re looking for fun and delicious ways to incorporate maca powder into your child’s diet, here are a few kid-friendly recipes to try:
1. Maca Smoothie: Blend together 1 banana, 1 cup of frozen berries, 1 cup of almond milk, 1 tsp of maca powder, and a handful of spinach. This smoothie is not only delicious but packed with nutrients that your child needs to stay healthy.
2. Maca Energy Balls: In a food processor, blend together 1 cup of dates, 1 cup of almonds, 1 tbsp of maca powder, and 1 tbsp of raw honey. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
3. Maca Chocolate Milk: Mix together 1 cup of almond milk, 1 tbsp of cocoa powder, 1 tsp of maca powder, and 1 tbsp of honey. Serve chilled for a healthy and tasty alternative to chocolate milk.
4. Maca Oatmeal: Cook 1 cup of oats with 2 cups of water or almond milk. Once cooked, stir in 1 tsp of maca powder and top with fresh fruit and honey.
These recipes are not only delicious but also provide your child with the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive. By incorporating maca powder into their diet in creative and tasty ways, you can ensure that your child is getting the nutrition they need while also satisfying their taste buds.
