Targeting Sexual Dysfunction with Maca – InVite Health Podcast, Episode 403
sexual dysfunction
InViteⓇ Health Podcast, Episode hosted by Amanda Williams, MPH
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There are so many prescribed medications that can create unwelcomed side effects, including sexual dysfunction. This can include erectile dysfunction in men, low libido and more. I want to talk about a really unique nutrient that has been shown to be quite beneficial when it comes to enhancing overall libido, along with many other very positive benefits.†
Maca and sexual dysfunction
Maca root extract is very unique. This is a Peruvian plant extract that grows really high in terms of altitude. This is similar to the adaptogenic herb rhodiola, which also grows in very harsh conditions.†
When it comes to the science of how maca root and its constituents are actually working, it’s really quite broad. We’re not just talking about sexual wellbeing. We’re also targeting inflammation, gastrointestinal health, brain health and more. We can also look at maca almost as a superfood. The maca plant itself is very rich in fiber, essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. It’s a very powerful antioxidant.†
One of the more common ways in which maca has been studied scientifically was solely in the setting of sexual dysfunction. When you think about erectile dysfunction in men and low libido, we know that maca has been shown time and time again to really help to enhance the libido. It does this by helping to support better levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.†
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Researchers have found that the maca is working through three different mechanisms. One is through the HPA Axis and the regulation of the adrenal glands. Like rhodiola, maca has this adaptogenic property to it. Then, we look at the optimization of brain neurotransmitters. We know that it’s working to help support healthy serotonin release and GABA.†
Studies on maca in women
Maca has long been known for its positive benefits on sexual function in men, but researchers are only beginning to understand how it also functions in women.†
There was a study that was done in post-menopausal women where they were giving the women roughly 600 mg of maca every day. The researchers then assessed them over time to see if there was any improvement in terms of the sexual dysfunction that they were experiencing. In just six weeks, the women who were given the maca extract saw more than a 30% increase in rating scales for factors such as anxiety, depression and dysfunction. That’s a really positive thing because many women complain about lacking sex drive and feeling depressed.†
In this episode, Amanda Williams, MPH discusses sexual dysfunction in both men and women. She focuses on the nutrient maca and its ability to help promote healthy sexual functions, as well as other aspects of the body.†
Key Topics:
- Common forms of sexual dysfunction
- How maca is grown
- Maca’s impacts on inflammation, blood pressure and more
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