Are you considering adding maca powder to your diet?
This superfood has been touted for its numerous health benefits, including increased energy, improved mood, and enhanced sexual function.
However, some users have reported experiencing stomach upset after consuming maca powder.
So, what’s the deal? Does maca powder really upset your stomach?
In this article, we’ll explore the potential side effects of maca powder and provide tips on how to avoid stomach discomfort when consuming this popular supplement.
Whether you’re a long-time maca user or just starting out, read on to learn more about this powerful plant and how it can impact your digestive system.
Does Maca Powder Upset Stomach?
While maca powder is generally considered safe by health authorities, some users have reported experiencing stomach discomfort after consuming it. This can include symptoms such as cramping, indigestion, and nausea.
It’s important to note that these side effects are not experienced by everyone who consumes maca powder. In fact, only a small percentage of people (about 5%) report experiencing stomach upset after consuming it.
So, why does maca powder sometimes cause stomach discomfort? One reason may be due to the fact that maca belongs to the Brassicaceae family of plants, which also includes mustards and horseradish. Like these other strong foods, maca should be consumed in relatively small amounts. Consuming too much maca powder at once can overwhelm the digestive system and lead to stomach discomfort.
Another reason why some people experience stomach upset after consuming maca powder is due to the fact that raw maca contains enzymes that can inhibit digestion and assimilation of food. This can lead to digestive issues such as cramping and indigestion.
What Is Maca Powder?
Maca powder is made from the dried root of the maca plant, which is native to the Incan empire in Peru. It has been used for thousands of years as a superfood and is sometimes referred to as Peruvian ginseng. Maca powder is known for its ability to enhance energy levels and balance hormones, making it a popular supplement among those looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing.
Maca powder has a unique earthy, malty flavor that some people find off-putting. It’s important to note that maca powder is a food and should be consumed in moderation. Consuming too much maca powder at once can lead to stomach discomfort and other digestive issues.
To avoid stomach upset when consuming maca powder, it’s recommended to start with a small serving size and gradually increase it over time. It’s also important to avoid consuming maca powder with fruit or fruit juice, as these digest more quickly than other types of food and can exacerbate digestive issues.
Another option for those experiencing stomach upset when consuming maca powder is to switch to gelatinized maca. This type of maca has been pre-cooked and has had the starch content effectively removed, making it easier to digest than raw maca powder.
The Potential Benefits Of Maca Powder
Despite the potential for stomach upset, maca powder has been touted for its potential health benefits. Maca powder is a root vegetable that is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments.
One of the most well-known potential benefits of maca powder is its ability to boost energy levels and improve stamina. This is due to the fact that maca contains high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to support overall health and well-being.
Maca powder has also been shown to have potential benefits for sexual health. Some studies have found that maca can help to increase libido and improve sexual function in both men and women. This may be due to the fact that maca contains compounds that help to balance hormone levels in the body.
In addition, maca powder may have potential benefits for mood regulation and stress reduction. Some studies have found that maca can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improve overall mood and well-being.
Reported Side Effects Of Maca Powder
Although maca powder is generally safe, some users have reported experiencing side effects after consuming it. Here are some of the reported side effects of maca powder:
1. Feeling “jittery”: Some users have reported feeling jittery or wired after consuming maca powder, especially when they first start taking it. This is likely due to taking too much at once. To avoid this side effect, it’s recommended to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase over time.
2. Insomnia: A small number of people have reported experiencing insomnia after taking maca powder. To alleviate this possibility, it’s recommended to take maca before 2pm and/or reduce the dosage.
3. Digestive issues: About 5% of users have reported experiencing upset stomach, slight cramping, or gas after consuming raw maca powder. This is due to the starch content in raw maca powder. For those with sensitive digestive systems, it’s recommended to consume gelatinized maca powder instead.
4. Acne: Some users have reported an increase in acne after starting to take maca powder. This is a temporary symptom that should lessen as the body balances its hormones.
5. Heartburn: Although rare, some users have reported experiencing heartburn after taking maca powder. If this affects you, there are ways to alleviate it which can be found in the linked article.
It’s important to note that these side effects are not experienced by everyone who consumes maca powder and that they are generally mild and uncommon. If you experience any of these side effects, reducing your dosage or switching to gelatinized maca powder may help alleviate them. As always, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a health condition that may be worsened by estrogen-like substances like those found in maca powder.
Tips For Avoiding Stomach Discomfort When Consuming Maca Powder
If you’re one of the few individuals who experience stomach discomfort after consuming maca powder, there are several things you can do to help alleviate these symptoms.
Firstly, it’s recommended to reduce the amount of maca powder you consume. Start with a small amount, such as 1/4-1/2 teaspoon, and gradually increase the amount over time as your body becomes more accustomed to it.
It’s also recommended to avoid consuming maca powder with fruit or fruit juice, as these digest more quickly than other types of food and can exacerbate stomach discomfort. Instead, try mixing maca powder into almond or rice milk, or simply enjoy it with water.
Another option is to try gelatinized maca instead of raw maca powder. Gelatinized maca has been pre-cooked and has had the starch content effectively removed, making it easier to digest than raw maca powder.
Lastly, consider using one of our Maca Extracts instead of maca powder. These extracts are based in glycerine and are 100% alcohol-free. To make these extracts, our Maca powders go through a special low-temperature process that isolates Maca’s active ingredients. We’ve seen great results with these products and have never heard of anyone having a digestive issue with them.
Remember, everyone’s body is different and may react differently to certain foods. If you’ve tried all of the above tips and still experience stomach discomfort when consuming maca powder, it may be best to avoid it for now and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.
When To See A Doctor If You Experience Stomach Issues From Maca Powder
If you experience stomach issues after consuming maca powder, it’s important to pay attention to your body and take steps to alleviate your symptoms. However, in some cases, stomach discomfort may be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition.
If you experience severe or persistent stomach pain after consuming maca powder, it’s important to seek medical attention. This may be a sign of an underlying digestive disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Additionally, if you have a history of thyroid issues or are currently taking medication for thyroid disorders, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming maca powder. This is because raw maca contains iodine and other goitrogens that can irritate the thyroid and exacerbate existing thyroid issues.
In general, if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms after consuming maca powder, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.
