Because a product is natural doesn't mean all the effects are good.
Maca has gained a reputation for being a superior herb in its health benefits, nutritional value and safety. The FDA has concluded that "maca appears to be safe." However, it has classified maca as a Class 4 Herb: "Herbs for which insufficient data are available for classification."
Precautions
Maca affects the body's hormonal system, and that in turn can affect all body systems. If a person has medical or nervous conditions, liver or kidney problems, allergies or digestive issues, she should check with a medical professional before beginning a maca regimen. If she experiences adverse reactions while on maca, consultation with a healthcare professional is in order for adjustment of dosage, possible lab tests and monitoring. A person should be wary about making decisions based on others' testimonials or advice from a product promoter.
Thyroid Concerns
Anyone with thyroid concerns or on thyroid medications needs to take precautions with maca supplementation. This herb is high in iodine, amino acids and other nutrients that can affect thyroxine, a pro-hormone in the thyroid. An imbalance can lead to goiters, hyper- or hypothyroidism, overstimulation or fatigue. You should begin with a small dosage of maca and have a health professional monitor your results regularly. Some herbalists also recommend a two-week rest from maca every two months to allow the body to readjust to its own natural balance.
Sleep Disorders
Perhaps maca will bring restful sleep--or a stressful rest.
Testimonials for maca's benefits for sleep are mixed, some users experiencing more restful sleep and others more troubled sleep. Since maca is an energy booster, it can rev up your heart rate and increase stress, leading to insomnia or fitful sleep. Experienced herbalists generally recommend cutting back or discountinuing a supplement or herb if users experience bad effects. This is wise with maca.
Digestive Disorders
Maca root is about 8.5 percent fiber. When users consume high concentrations of fiber, they can experience intestinal distress such as diarrhea, flatulence and even dehydration. Maca also contains enzymes that can hinder digestion for some and improve it for others. That's why some users notice better digestion and elimination while others do not.
Sexual Concerns
Maca is reputed to increase sexual desire.
Often called "Peruvian Viagra," maca is reputed to correct erectile dysfunction, and increase libido and sexual performance. Some documented studies support this. However, overuse may lead to overstimulation, aggressiveness and anxiety. Some studies show that benefits decrease within three to four weeks of continual use, so herbalists recommend suspension of use for a few days every few weeks.
Emotional Implications
Many promoters and users speak highly of how maca helps to calm and balance their emotions. Yet there are instances where maca seems to do the opposite, increasing depression and prolonging bouts of emotional instability. affects hormonal levels, it can temporarily result in differing affects on different people and even on the same user at different times. The best advice is to begin slowly with small dosages, monitor your results and readjust your usage, or if necessary, discontinue usage.
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