Maca Root Side Effects
What you need to know to stay safe
Some people get maca root side effects.... some don't.
Unfortunately this is going to depend on a few factors.
Everyone is unique and reacts differently to supplements. This couldn't be more true with maca root.
Depending on your dosage, your current health condition, and the other supplements you're taking you may or may not experience a side effect.
In most cases you won't, but numerous people have reported some type of mild side effect.
Let's review some of the benefits, and ways to avoid unwanted maca root side effects.
Maca plants come from Peru. Many people consider them to have lots of different health benefits.
One thing this plant has in common with other herbal supplements is
its age. These herbs have been used for thousands of years.
With the safety of supplements always being a concern, it's reassuring that there are not many maca
root side effects.
Although this can be classified as a herbal supplement, it is also referred to as a natural testosterone booster because of its aphrodisiac effects.
Bodybuilders and athletes use this to increase their testosterone levels for better performance.
Here are some of the benefits that have been experienced:
- Higher sex drive
- Boost in energy levels
- Increased strength
- Increased endurance
- Helps with chronic fatigue
- More alertness
Because maca plants have an aphrodisiac effect, they can alter your hormone levels.
Some women believe that the maca root was responsible for some acne
breakouts do to the change in their hormone levels.
If you experience breakouts regularly, you might want to check with your doctor or herbalist before taking this
supplement.
Some of the maca root side effects experienced were:
- Upset stomach
- Increased heart rate
- Heart burn
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
Reduce your dosage.... gradually build it up.... or stop taking this supplement.
Remember, only some people have experienced these side effects.
These are usually not major health concerns. If you stop taking the product you will be fine.
Many people have reported taking these supplements for many many months with absolutely no side effects.
There are others who enjoy the benefits of the maca root for several weeks, then experience some of the
side effects after using it for quite some time.
Now, not everyone gets side effects, but those that do have often used the supplement for quite some time.
It might be useful to cycle on and off this supplement, especially if you start to experience any side effects. You might want to use it for 2 weeks and take
a few days off. Or use it for 3 or 4 weeks and take 1 or 2 weeks off. These are not set recommendations, but they may help you avoid unwanted effects.
If you want to play it safe, your maca dosage should start off as
half of the recommended intake. Do that for a couple weeks and increase it slowly. Never take more than is recommended.
Most maca supplements require you to take 4 capsules per day. So start with half that dosage and work your way up. After 2 weeks with no complications, move
from 2 capsules to the full 4 capsules. Try it for 2 weeks then take a week off.
Again these are not set guidelines. People use this supplement for 8 weeks straight with no complications, but it is normally recommended to cycle maca root. You don't want to supplement this herb everyday, all year long.
Right now there are not enough human studies on the maca root supplement to explain the best maca dosage. Although people have reported positive effects,
there are not many studies backing up these claims.
Even without many scientific studies, some people swear by the maca plant.
There are some people that compare the maca root to a multivitamin.
It is a great natural source of amino acids, vitamins minerals and fatty acids.
The maca root is classified as an adaptogen.
What is an adaptogen?...
This is a term used by herbalists.
Adaptogens were once referred to as rejuvenating herbs which give us more clues about their functions.
Basically an adaptogen is any
herb that helps your body fight off negative effects like stress, fatigue or some type of trauma.
These types of herbs are different from other herbs because
they have the ability to balance your hormones. This is why this herb is associated with increasing your sex drive, or helping women in menopause.
Also,
adaptogens work better with longer use. They usually don't work instantly.
More on the maca dosage.
It was mentioned above that if you are worried about side effects to begin with half the dosage and cycle off the product every few weeks. This is not
mandatory, but it is a safe way to introduce this supplement to your body.
Usually the recommended dosage is between 3000 and 5000 mg per day. The amount of pills you take per day will depend on the amount in each pill. Again
read the dosage recommendation and start with a lower dosage if you want.
Some products might have a very pure source of maca and the recommendations might be around 1000 mg per day. Read the labels carefully.
Most of the maca root side effects are quite rare and not very dangerous.
It is a relatively safe product.
That being said, if you have any pre medical
conditions always check with your doctor first.
If you experience any stomach pains or other side effects, reduce your dosage or stop using the
supplement.
I think you should be fine though. I'll keep my fingers crossed :)
Product Recommendation:
If you're looking for a product, I would recommend Maca Root from Navitas Naturals. 
Safe Maca Root Alternative
Maca root can be very effective, but unfortunately some people experience side effects.
A great alternative for women would be Xtend-Life's Female Rejuvenator.
This is designed specifically to help relieve the symptoms of PMS and menopause, and help women balance their hormone levels.
A similar alternative for men would be Xtend Life's Male Rejuvenator.
What's great about these supplements is that they are extremely high quality and will produce no side effects.
Have a Question about Maca Root?
Do you have a question about the maca root plant? Are you concerned about how much you should take or whether your health could improve with the use of this supplement?
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