Maca during pregnancy and while breastfeeding

Traditionally in Peru maca root is consumed before, during and after pregnancy. Studies have shown that Maca root benefits conception and fertility in both men and women. Maca is also a rich source of folate and other essential vitamins and minerals to support the body during pregnancy and is traditionally consumed at times to alleviate morning sickness. Other maca powder benefits include improving energy and resilience to stress, regulating and balancing hormones, improving mood and mental health, particularly after birth. For new mothers maca can assist to help balance fluctuating hormonal levels and reduce the risk of postnatal depression.

There are no clinical studies that currently evaluate the safety of maca during pregnancy as with many natural remedies, so we advise you to check with your healthcare professional before deciding whether to start taking maca while pregnant. Also remember that not all maca powder is equal, so before starting on any maca ensure that it ticks all the safety boxes and is a therapeutic good quality maca powder. See below for our recommendations for which maca to take during pregnancy.

Traditionally in Peru consuming maca while breastfeeding is common and it is believed to be safe. The best consensus piece addressing this by medical specialists was done by APILAM (Association for Promotion and Cultural and Scientific Research of Breastfeeding). The organization consists of a group of pediatricians, health practitioners and mothers. Their review of evidence, case studies and data deemed maca to be very low risk to both mother and child during breast feeding. Their classification for maca states – “A substance labeled as Very low Risk is a substance that has been shown safe for lactation and the infant. Safe product compatible with breastfeeding based on reliable information published on the scientific literature. It can be taken within a reasonable range of safety.” Given the large list of health benefits of maca powder taking it while breast feeding may assist nursing mothers and their babies with energy, mental health, hormonal balance and immunity.

Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is key, so it is important to ensure that you are taking a premium and safe form of maca and not putting your health at risk, not all maca is equal. Most importantly DO NOT eat raw maca powder as maca should always be cooked before it is consumed and raw maca can make you unwell. Raw maca is very high risk for mould and aflatoxins and can be highly inflammatory on the body. Ensure your maca is activated or gelatinized as these forms are pre-cooked, safe and ready to eat. Secondly check your maca has standardised levels of macamides on the nutritional panel as this ensures you are getting the correct and safe daily dose that is therapeutic. Thirdly use a 3-coloured blend of maca as this offers more harmonising health properties and balance as well as a broader variety of positive health benefits.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding we highly recommend using our specialised Maca For Women formula of activated maca powder, that has standardised macamide levels and an ideal blend of colours to best balance female hormones and health. All our maca powder is tested and safe from mould, aflatoxins, heavy metals and other nasties and is standardised to ensure potency. We recommend taking either 1/2 – 1 tsp or 3-5 capsules daily. It can be consumed daily and is best consumed in the morning with breakfast. See our tips on taking maca to learn more about the best way to consume and store it.

Traditionally consumed by children in Peru maca powder benefits in kids include improving brain function and concentration for schooling, enhancing memory, boosting immunity and providing sustained energy. For children we recommend taking approximately half the dose of adults until they begin puberty – ideally (1/2 tsp per day of our yellow maca or 1 tsp of our chocolate maca).

Maca is a sacred Incan root vegetable that has been used for centuries in Peru for its vast array of therapeutic properties. Traditionally maca root is prepared through hand-harvesting, sun-drying and boiling into teas, soups, broths or elixirs. The indigenous owners of this sacred plant believe that maca grows with such strength and fortitude under such extreme conditions (4000m above sea level) that her strength and resilience is her gift to those who cultivate and consume her with respect. A story that isn’t far from the truth as the list of Maca root benefits are vast and include improving energy, vitality, stamina, immunity and endurance, as well as balancing hormones, mental health and mood. Maca is also well known for its aphrodisiac properties and has been used for fertility enhancement for centuries. Maca acts as an adaptogen to return balance to the body during times of stress and fluctuations in physical or mental health.