Maca - Call for Comments

[msfunguy]

I've also started experimenting with Maca and it looks to be a VERY promising supplement - great for increasing energy, libido and stamina. I'd like to know of other forum reader's experiences with Maca. 

Specifically, I am wondering if readers have experienced insomnia while using Maca?

What is your dosage protocol?

I am starting with a 500 mg capsule in the morning, plus an additional 500 mg in the evening if I think that sex is going to happen..

[PeakT]

msfun:  I split this out as the other thread was really on Citrulline.  I sometimes sabotage threads myself, but I'm trying to keep things somewhat grouped on topic.

[feelgood]

i take some organic raw Maca root from time to time...i have no doubt it's healthy and full of a ton of antioxidants...but libido booster? i don't see it...at least for me anyway. Don't really notice a kick like that from it.

[PeakT]

I'll go on record saying I think it boosts libido and altertness for moi...

[kcwebguy]

Maca took my libido down by as much as 75%. I repeated the test 3 times over a 7 day period for each cycle. Same results every time.

I am starting to believe that no supplementation and a low fat diet with a rigorous exercise routine are my best friends.

I took the 500mg capsule by NOW.

[PeakT]

msfun:  Kcweb's story is a great example as to why you should try adding/subtracting a supplement one at a time.

[osullivan]

Hi
Maca lowers my libido and testosterone by over 50%
As soon as i stopped it my t levels weng down to 9.5
i have done some diet at the same time but im pr e tty sure that maca loers t levels

[PeakT]

Hi
Maca lowers my libido and testosterone by over 50%
As soon as i stopped it my t levels weng down to 9.5
i have done some diet at the same time but im pr e tty sure that maca loers t levels

I've noted your comments and kcwebguy's and placed them in my Maca page:

http://www.peaktestosterone.com/maca

See the CAUTION section.

[PeakT]

Actually, I already had a caution on that page pointing to the thread.  However, I added your commentary as well.

[EH]

I experienced insomnia while using Maca, as well as a couple other unwanted psychological effects like hyperactivity and inability to focus.  I actually felt really dumb while using it; however, I did notice a probable libido increase.  It made my feet very cold though, which suggests that it works on thyroid (some research supports this).  All in all, it was a supplement that caused good and bad things for me, so I discontinued it.

If you're looking for a libido boost, I highly suggest trying fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice.

[dwilcox]

I gotta go with Peak on this and vote yes.

I've tried both the capsules and powder, and I think the powder is better - if you can handle the taste.

I did notice a libido increase, but like most things, it was temporary.  For me, after a couple of weeks, it seems my body reverted back to norm.  But it was a fun couple of weeks !!

Maybe Maca is something that needs to be cycled somewhat.

[T-Power]

I've used the powder form and didn't notice anything good or bad. I was hoping for an energy boost and reduced fatigue but unfortunately got nothing. I did sort of like the smell and taste though.

[PeakT]

I've used the powder form and didn't notice anything good or bad. I was hoping for an energy boost and reduced fatigue but unfortunately got nothing. I did sort of like the smell and taste though.

If you like the taste of the raw maca, then you are definitely a potential raw foods guy!  I could never get used to it...

[PeakT]

I split out a thread on maca lowering estradiol by 60+% and perhaps creating hypothyroidism:

http://www.peaktestosterone.com/forum/index.php?topic=8673.0

[SumTingWong]

I'm not sure the other lowers estradiol like that - I think the studies at least do not indicate that.

The estradiol change is a curious one.

That is two people here (including EH) mentioning thyroid and Maca. 

I did some reading into this last night, and there are a lot of references to non-gelatinized (raw) Maca being goitrogenic, because it contains glucosinolates and isothyocyanates. Apparently, the Peruvians always eat it cooked which mitigates that problem.

If someone were to try Maca, then the gelatinized version would be the way to go.