From the Research
It's generally not recommended to take maca powder at night, as it may interfere with sleep due to its potential energizing effects. Maca is considered an adaptogen that may increase energy levels and alertness for many people, which could disrupt sleep if taken close to bedtime. For best results, consume maca powder in the morning or early afternoon, typically with a dose of 1-3 teaspoons (3-9 grams) mixed into smoothies, oatmeal, or other foods. This timing allows the potential energizing effects to support your daily activities rather than disrupt your sleep cycle.
Some key points to consider when taking maca powder:
- Start with a smaller dose (½-1 teaspoon) and gradually increase to assess your body's response
- Monitor your personal reaction if you decide to experiment with evening consumption, as individual responses vary
- The energizing effect occurs because maca may help balance hormones and support adrenal function, potentially improving energy levels and stamina
- While there is no direct evidence on maca powder and sleep, studies on melatonin, such as those by 1, suggest that timing and dosage are crucial in managing sleep disorders, which may be relevant to consider when taking maca powder.
In terms of managing sleep disorders, melatonin has been shown to be effective in improving sleep parameters, with optimal dosage and dosing time being important to maximize its efficacy, as suggested by 1. However, the use of melatonin and other supplements should be approached with caution, and individual responses should be monitored closely.