One of the foods I brought back from Peru was this white-yellowish powder called Maca. Maca is a root native to Peru and Bolivia, it grows in the Andean mountains and is gaining more and more “popularity” as a superfood, also known as “peruvian gingseng”. It is mostly found in powder form, and the average consumption suggested is 1-2 teaspoons a day, preferably in the morning.

Maca has several health benefits and is used for different reasons:

1. VITAMINS/MINERALS: it is a strong source of iron, calcium and potassium. Maca is also a great source of riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin E and vitamin A. With a high degree of flavonoids, maca is also a powerful anti-oxidant.
2. SEXUAL FUNCTION, FERTILITY: Maca has long been used to promote sexual function of both men and women. It’s thought to boost libido and increase endurance. It has also been used to balance the hormones and increase fertility.
3. ENERGY: both mental and physical, that’s why it is recommended to take it in the morning.
4. MENSTRUAL ISSUES /MENOPAUSE: it is known to help balance women’s hormones and menstrual issues.

To use Maca, just mix it with water or other liquid, or add it to your porridge, or like me in this case, use it in your smoothie.

·INGREDIENTS· (for 1 serving)
→2 cups chopped kale or spinach
→1 banana
→1 tablespoon maca powder
→1 tablespoon chia seeds + garnish
→1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
→juice of 1/2 lemon
→1 piece of ginger, grated or chopped
→2 tablespoon protein powder (optional)
→1 cup of water or milk + couple ice cubes

Blend everything in your blender until creamy. You can add more water if you prefer your smoothie more liquid. Top with some chia seeds and enjoy! Perfect as your breakfast smoothie or post workout snack!