I replaced coffee with Maca powder!
This publication is also available in: 
Français 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Español 
English (US)
If, like me, you are a big coffee lover, you have probably noticed that apart from your morning cup, which serves as a true wake-up call (and let’s be honest, that’s its main role), the other coffees throughout the day no longer give you that famous boost!
This is completely normal: it means your body has gotten used to caffeine. Nothing serious, but then… what to drink to fight against afternoon fatigue?
Feeling that the effect of coffee was becoming less and less noticeable, I decided to cut back on my consumption and look for other alternatives (I used to drink up to 5-6 cups a day!). It was somewhat by chance that I discovered maca powder… Why and how to adopt this “boosting” powder, I’ll tell you all about it here.
Where does maca powder come from?
It comes from Peru and is also known as Peruvian ginseng. Well-known, it has been used for centuries in South America for its energizing properties, its rich nutritional content, and its fiber-rich ingredients that promote endurance in athletes. And it’s no coincidence that athletes consume it: grown at over 4000 meters altitude, where the climatic conditions are extreme and the oxygen content is quite low, the plant is forced to develop “survivor” properties to stay alive.
Today, this root has become a true superfood, recognized for its adaptogenic qualities that help support energy and combat fatigue.
What are the benefits of maca powder?
If you’re a bit curious and type “maca powder” into a search engine, the first thing you’ll probably read is that maca powder is an aphrodisiac and helps to boost libido. This is surely true and good news, but this powder, which originates from the Andes, will provide you (in addition to stimulating your libido) with valuable benefits.
- Energy-boosting properties
It is primarily due to its energy-boosting properties that you can replace a few cups of coffee with a drink made with maca powder. People suffering from anemia (iron deficiency) can find in maca powder a great ally, rich in iron.
- Improvement of libido
If maca powder enjoys such a good reputation, it’s because it is said to be particularly useful for those looking for a little boost to their libido. It is also said that it could improve fertility, but studies on this specific subject are not yet very conclusive.
- Hormone management
A major advantage for women who sometimes experience hormonal roller coasters depending on their journey. Between periods and menopause, maca powder can relieve feminine ailments and help reduce certain menopause symptoms, such as irritability, hot flashes, insomnia, or fatigue.
Maca powder is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. If this is your case, talk to your doctor.
- Stress reduction
Stress is a normal body response to external events. While occasional stress is natural, it becomes problematic when it becomes difficult to manage daily or generates anxiety. Maca powder contains amino acids, such as glycine and lysine, which have a calming and relaxing effect.
- Muscle regeneration
Excellent for athletes who will see their endurance increase, maca powder is the champion of muscle regeneration. Enriched with essential nutrients like proteins, amino acids, and minerals, it helps repair muscles and reduce soreness, contributing to faster and more effective recovery after training.
How to use it?
I must admit… I hate the smell of maca powder. So it’s impossible for me to make a cup of tea with it. Yes, it’s good for health, but I had to find other alternatives to consume it.
In a smoothie
Mixing one or two teaspoons into a smoothie is a good idea, as by blending your ingredients, the maca powder will, on one hand, prevent clumping, and on the other hand, the taste will be masked by the flavors of the fruits and vegetables you have selected.
In muffins or energy balls
If you are a fan of healthy homemade muffins or cakes, add one or two teaspoons of maca powder to your mixture for a real boost! Making maca energy balls is just as easy and delicious!
In yogurt
When you don’t have the time or desire to bake, or don’t have enough fruits for a smoothie, there’s always the easy option: a bit of maca powder in yogurt. If you like the taste of maca, that’s perfect. If you’re like me and grimace, I recommend adding a bit of cinnamon powder or some jam.
In a cup of tea
You probably know matcha green tea? Well, multiply the benefits of matcha by pairing it with maca powder.
I recommend adding hot water, but not boiling. The reason? Boiling water (above 60 degrees) tends to destroy vitamins.
Coffee is not bad for your health, but in high doses, it can cause stomach pains or palpitations, which is never pleasant. Replacing a cup of coffee with a smoothie made with maca powder has changed my afternoon habits. I love coffee and can’t do without it, but no more than three cups a day for me!
