Are you considering taking maca powder as a supplement, but worried about the potential risks?
One concern that has been raised is whether maca powder could increase the risk of breast cancer. While there is limited scientific research on the topic, some studies suggest that maca may have estrogenic effects, which could potentially impact hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.
In this article, we’ll explore the available evidence and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether maca powder is right for you.
Will Taking Maca Powder Increase Breast Cancer Risk?
While there is some concern that maca powder may increase the risk of breast cancer, the evidence is not conclusive. Some studies have suggested that maca may have estrogenic effects, which could potentially impact hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. However, other studies have found no evidence of such effects.
It’s important to note that maca is generally considered safe for consumption when consumed as part of a food product or in small doses medicinally. However, due to the limited scientific knowledge of maca’s effects, it is recommended that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with conditions that are hormone-sensitive, like endometriosis and breast cancer, uterine cancer, or ovarian cancer avoid consuming the root to stay on the safe side, as the root may affect estrogen levels.
It’s also important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking maca supplements. Herbal supplements are stronger than the herbs you would use in cooking, and some herbal supplements can also affect how medications work. Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether maca is safe for you to take and can monitor any potential side effects.
What Is Maca Powder?
Maca powder is derived from the root of the maca plant, which is related to the cabbage family and is used as food and medicine in Peru. Maca supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders. Maca is often touted for its potential uses and benefits, such as improving energy and strength, increasing fertility, improving desire to have sex, and relieving side effects of menopause like hot flashes.
While maca is generally considered safe for consumption when consumed as part of a food product or in small doses medicinally, it’s important to note that maca may interfere with lab tests that measure testosterone levels. Additionally, due to its effect on hormones, people with thyroid problems should avoid taking maca. It is also better to avoid taking maca when undergoing treatments that modify hormonal levels, such as treatments for breast cancer.
The Link Between Hormones And Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a complex disease that is influenced by many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and hormones. Hormones, particularly estrogen, play a crucial role in the development and growth of breast cancer. Estrogen is produced by the ovaries and other tissues in the body and can promote the growth of breast cancer cells.
There are different types of estrogen metabolites that can be produced in the body, some of which are potentially harmful. For example, 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone (16-OH) is a type of estrogen metabolite that has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This is because 16-OH can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells and cause DNA damage.
Women who have higher levels of estrogen, or who have a higher ratio of certain types of estrogen metabolites, may be at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This is particularly true for postmenopausal women, as their estrogen levels should naturally drop after menopause. However, due to lifestyle and environmental factors, some women may experience estrogen dominance even after going through menopause, which can increase their risk of breast cancer.
While there is some concern that maca powder may have estrogenic effects and potentially impact hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer, the evidence is not conclusive. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking maca supplements to determine whether they are safe for you to take and to monitor any potential side effects. Additionally, if you have a history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive conditions, it may be best to avoid consuming maca root to stay on the safe side.
Estrogenic Effects Of Maca Powder
Maca powder has been suggested to have estrogenic effects, which means it may interact with estrogen receptors in the body. This could potentially impact hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. However, the evidence is not conclusive, as some studies have found no evidence of such effects.
It’s important to note that estrogenic effects are not necessarily harmful. In fact, some natural compounds that have estrogenic effects, like phytoestrogens found in soy and flaxseed, may actually have protective effects against breast cancer.
That being said, if you have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers or are currently undergoing treatment for such cancers, it is recommended that you avoid consuming maca root or taking maca supplements. This is because the root may affect estrogen levels and could potentially interfere with your treatment.
As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking maca powder. Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether maca is safe for you to take and can monitor any potential side effects.
Studies On Maca Powder And Breast Cancer Risk
Several studies have investigated the potential link between maca powder and breast cancer risk. One study published in the journal Menopause found that maca supplementation had no significant effect on estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. Another study published in the journal Climacteric also found no significant effects on hormone levels in postmenopausal women who took maca supplements.
However, a study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that maca extract may have estrogenic effects, which could potentially increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. The study was conducted on rats and found that maca extract increased the weight of the uterus, an indication of estrogenic activity.
Other Health Benefits Of Maca Powder
In addition to its potential impact on breast cancer risk, maca powder has been linked to a variety of other health benefits. Some studies suggest that maca may help improve sexual function and libido in both men and women. It has also been shown to support healthy energy levels, enhance fertility in both males and females, improve memory, protect against ultraviolet radiation, and promote balanced hormones. Maca is also a rich source of important micronutrients like iron, iodine, potassium, calcium, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, maca is considered an “adaptogen,” which means it can help the body naturally adapt to stressors like a busy schedule or demanding job. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of maca powder, its reputation as a superfood is well-deserved. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking maca supplements to ensure they are safe for you to consume.
Talk To Your Doctor Before Trying Maca Powder.
If you’re interested in trying maca powder, it’s important to talk to your doctor before doing so. While maca root is generally safe for most people, there are certain groups who should avoid consuming it, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those with hormone-sensitive conditions like endometriosis and breast cancer.
Additionally, maca may interfere with lab tests that measure testosterone levels, so if you have scheduled tests or are taking hormone replacement therapy, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking maca.
Herbal supplements like maca can also interact with medications, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider of any supplements you’re taking. They can help you determine whether maca is safe for you to take and can monitor any potential side effects.
