Does Red Maca Root Help With Healthy Weight Gain? Learn the Facts

An Introduction to Red Maca Root

Red maca root is a unique type of maca that is garnering interest for its potential weight gain benefits. Maca is a Peruvian plant in the broccoli family that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. The root of the maca plant comes in several colors, including yellow, black, and red. Each color offers its own unique health perks. Red maca, in particular, contains high levels of iron and appears to be the variety best suited for adding pounds.

But can red maca root really help you gain weight? And is packing on pounds with a supplement necessarily safe or healthy? Keep reading to learn the facts about using red maca for weight gain.

Red Maca Nutrition Facts

Red maca root is jam-packed with nutrients that make it stand out from other varieties of the plant. It contains higher levels of iron, calcium, copper, and magnesium compared to lighter colored maca. It also includes plenty of phytonutrients like glucosinolates and polyphenols.

Some of the top nutrients found in red maca root include:

• Protein
• Vitamin C
• Iron
• Copper
• Manganese
• Potassium

The high nutrient density packed into red maca root powder is thought to be responsible for many of its health benefits. It provides the raw materials needed for everything from energy production to bone growth to metabolic function.

The Weight Gain Connection

So why is red maca believed to promote weight gain? It comes down to a few key mechanisms.

First, red maca is high in calories and carbs. With nearly 80 calories in just one tablespoon, it can easily help increase total calorie intake each day. Plus, nearly 85% of those calories come from carbs.

For people looking to gain weight, upping calorie consumption is key. Eating more calories than your body burns on a daily basis leads to weight gain over time.

Second, the nutrients in red maca support a healthy metabolism. Iron, magnesium, manganese, B vitamins, and more all play central roles in energy production and metabolic function. Optimizing these processes helps ensure calories are properly absorbed and utilized.

Finally, some research indicates that red maca can influence levels of hormones like leptin and ghrelin. Leptin is the fullness hormone that decreases appetite. Ghrelin is the hunger hormone that stimulates appetite. Regulating these hormones may support healthy weight gain.

Other Potential Benefits

In addition to weight gain, preliminary research suggests that red maca may offer several other benefits:

• Increased energy and stamina
• Enhanced mood
• Reduced anxiety and stress
• Improved focus and concentration
• Regulated menstrual cycles
• Improved fertility
• Prostate health
• Stronger bones

However, more research is still needed to determine the efficacy and safety of red maca, especially in therapeutic dosages. So far most studies have used small sample sizes or animal models.

Is Red Maca Safe?

Maca root has been consumed for thousands of years in Peru with minimal adverse effects reported. The people of Peru traditionally cooked maca root and used it in recipes for stews, porridges, and juices.

In powdered supplement form, maca also appears to be highly safe for most people. However, there are a few potential side effects to keep in mind:

• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Allergic reaction
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Acne

Starting with a low dose and working up slowly can help minimize digestive side effects. Pay attention to any worrisome symptoms and consider discontinuing use if adverse effects persist.

Some people should exercise greater caution when using maca:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, endometriosis, ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, and prostate cancer
• Those taking medications that interact with hormones like birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, tamoxifen, and more

Due to macas effects on hormones, its best to consult your healthcare provider before use if you have any underlying medical conditions or take any medications.

Recommended Dosage

There is no official recommended dosage for red maca root. With supplements, you'll often see a suggested use of 1,500-3,000 mg per day.

For adding pounds, the optimal dosage may be higher. Many people take around 5,000-9,000 mg split into 2-3 doses throughout the day along with meals.

Start low at 500-1,000 mg once a day for a week to assess tolerance. Slowly increase to higher doses as needed. Take maca with food to minimize any digestive distress.

Purchase gelatinized maca powder and opt for raw maca root over extracts for the most benefits.

Other Tips for Weight Gain

While red maca may support healthy weight gain, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Follow these tips to help optimize results:

Focus on Calorie-Dense Foods

Fill your diet with higher calorie foods to make it easier to increase total daily calorie intake. Go for nuts, seeds, avocados, full-fat dairy, granola, trail mix, and dried fruit.

Don't Skimp on Protein

Getting enough protein ensures those extra calories go towards building muscle rather than just fat. Aim for 0.5-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight.

Strength Train

Lifting weights triggers muscle protein synthesis, which will help direct weight gain toward muscle growth rather than fat gain.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is when your body repairs and regrows muscle tissue. Strive for 7-9 hours per night to allow for optimal muscle growth.

Manage Stress

High cortisol levels from chronic stress can negatively impact weight gain attempts. Try yoga, meditation, journaling, or other stress-busting strategies.

Should You Use Red Maca for Weight Gain?

Adding red maca to your routine may support healthy weight gain thanks to its calorie density, carb content, and metabolic-boosting nutrients.

However, red maca isn't a magic bullet. You still need to consume enough total calories each day to promote weight gain. Lifting weights, managing stress, and getting enough sleep are also key.

Red maca is safe for most people, but start with a low dose and watch for any negative side effects. Speak with your healthcare provider before using red maca if you have any medical conditions or take medications.

While more research is still needed on red maca, using it as part of a healthy, well-rounded lifestyle offers the best chance at sustainable, effective weight gain.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.