Maca Root and fertility

[Mystic]

Hey everyone.

I have gotten to that stage in my life where I want to have babies!!!! (YAY)

The only problem is that my menstrual cycle has been irregular for the last 12 months (I think I have had maybe 6 or 7 periods all together and very speratical). The year before that they were non-existant and before that I was on the pill for 7 years, and anorexic for 3 of those years.

I have not ovulated as far as I know (i have had a few tests but it is hard to tell with an inconsistent cycle) and apparently I have polycystic ovaries as well (but not the syndrome).

I read that Maca root can help with menstrual regularity and fertility - has anyone tried this? If so, what effect did you have? Are there any other factors to consider? I eat pretty well - lots of wholegrains, green tea, fruit, vegies - lots of avocado :) and I take calcium and B12. I know my protein intake is a little sorry and I have been trying hard to eat more protein, but I have always been fussy and I don't like nuts, tofu or soy in general. I eat beans on most days now though and I never used to.

[Mystic]

I forgot to mention I also take folate and just started taking flaxseed oil capsules.

[claireyveg]

Hi Stickydate, I'm studying naturopathy and have come aross maca in some of my studies, i know it is what we call an adaptogenic herb, which means it aids in restoring the bodies normal homeostatic functions, so this my help with your menstrual cycle. It is also a whole food so by adding this to your daily routine you are increasing your protien intake instantly. Maca can definately also be used as a fertillity enhancer, and it increased libido aswell. It is suitable for both males and females so maybe you and your partner should both try it?

[Mystic]

Thanks Claire! I have ordered some so I am hoping it will arrive tomorrow. I will let you know if it works :)

[Mystic]

If anyone is thinking about ordering Maca - order it in the capsule form - the powder is vile and unbarable to swallow :eek: I bought vege-caps and filled them myself coz I cannot stand the taste!

[Tigerlily]

Hmm, interesting. I have very irregular periods without the help of the pill. Maybe if I ever get off the pill, this will help me regulate my cycles.

[Mystic]

It is worth a try. It is safe and natural.

[Di41]

Hi there,

I've been taknig Maca root powder for about a week now, and i notice a difference, especially with libido ;) i don't have a problem with the taste i find if you mix the powder in with smoothies its fine.

Di

[Korn]

It is safe and natural.

Hi,
I just saw Maca root described as 'natural viagra'.... even if a plant/product is 'natural', it can still have unwanted side effects - or even be poisonous. (Not that I know that it has...)

[Di41]

some more info on Maca,

its is an adaptogen, so it adapts to your body's metabolism and can help you achieve your optimal health and engery, maca is nourishing for the hormonal system and helps balance irregulartiies, it also helps build energy, muscle and stamina, over come fatgue, improve mental ability and concentration, improve mood and help depression, maca also stimulates blood circulation, it contains vitamins, minerals and all the esserntial amino acids.

but of course with anything new, introduce it slowly into your diet, and see how you feel, what works for one may not work for others.

[jonnie falafel]

some more info on Maca,

its is an adaptogen, so it adapts to your body's metabolism and can help you achieve your optimal health and engery, maca is nourishing for the hormonal system and helps balance irregulartiies, it also helps build energy, muscle and stamina, over come fatgue, improve mental ability and concentration, improve mood and help depression, maca also stimulates blood circulation, it contains vitamins, minerals and all the esserntial amino acids.

but of course with anything new, introduce it slowly into your diet, and see how you feel, what works for one may not work for others.

I did a quick Google search & archive search on Maca in relation to infertility/libido etc... Also looked at some of the other things cited (mood improvements etc..) but it drew a blank. Could you tell me where I can find the research references to follow this up. Cheers.

[RangerChic]

Just started adding 1/2 teaspoon to some juice the last week and a half. It does taste horrid, that is for sure. I was recommended the powder for thyroid and feeling cold, etc.
So far, it is alright...not noticing a lot of difference to be honest.