Osteoporosis is a medical condition that increases the risk of bone injury and fracture due to weak bones.
This results when bone loss does not keep up with the bone formation. The leading cause of osteoporosis is low levels of estrogen in post-menopausal women.
It can also happen if the bone mass is less or the bone loss is more significant than normal.
It can also occur as a secondary complication of certain diseases, treatments, or improper intake of certain medicines resulting in bone loss.
Due to the weakening of bones, the elderlies are more prone to osteoporosis.
Proper diet and regular exercise are essential management measures.
Medications may also be useful in severe conditions. Adding maca, a root vegetable, to the diet can also be effective in treating osteoporosis.
Also Read: Boost Your Energy Levels with Organic Maca Powder
What are Maca and its benefits?
Maca is a herbaceous plant that grows in the high Andes mountains in Peru. It is popular as a medicinal herb and root vegetable.
Maca is known for its high therapeutic properties and nutritional value.
It is an important crop; Researchers have found various benefits in treating and managing osteoporosis.
Benefits Of Maca For Osteoporosis
Here are reasons why maca may benefit osteoporosis.
It shows anti-osteoporosis activity
Research studies suggest the use of Maca for the treatment of osteoporosis.
According to a research study published in Food Research International in 2015, N-benzyl-palmitamide, the active biological component of maca, showed anti-osteoporosis activity.
The active ingredient promotes the proliferation of osteoblasts, differentiation, and bone mineralization that aid in bone formation by regulating various related genes.
The study concluded that a component of maca was able to show significant results in the treatment of osteoporosis.
A clinical study conducted by Gonzales in 2012. This maca study found that glucosamine sulfate (a drug commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis) present in Maca is helpful in treating osteoporosis when administered taken it upto 8 weeks.[2]
The study results showed that maca improved the pain, stiffness, and functioning of joints affected by osteoporosis.
What does it mean? Maca may be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis and relieve pain and stiffness in the affected joints. It also enhances the functioning of bones. It increases the proliferation of osteoblasts that aid in bone formation.
Also Read: Red Maca & How It Helps Women
It makes bones strong
Since osteoporosis results from loss of bone mass or increased bone loss, it increases the risk of bone injuries.
Maca acts as a rich source of calcium and regulates estrogen levels in the body, helping in the treatment of osteoporosis.
A study done by Zhang demonstrated the effects of an alcoholic extract of maca on animal models induced with osteoporosis and found that oral administration of maca improved bone mineral density, thereby preventing bone loss.
The study concluded the effectiveness of maca in repairing bone loss caused by low estrogen levels in post-menopausal animal models.
The author of the book, The Pure Power of Maca, which describes the various essential properties of the plant, said that maca helps in the treatment of osteoporosis.
It is rich in various nutrients like calcium which can help in strengthening bones and building bones. Buy Organic Raw Maca Powder from Diet Angel in Malaysia here!
