No rest for the weary! This phrase resounds true for millions of Americans. Most of us live with our heads barely above water. Many are struggling to make ends meet, so they are forced work multiple jobs.
Others are trying to balance their hectic work schedule with their family’s activities, like dance class and sports. Normal life has become synonymous with “managing the chaos.”
The Energy Drink Obsession
With our busy lifestyles, it comes as no surprise that our society is obsessed with gaining energy. For many, caffeine has become the crutch that gets them through each day. In the city, coffee shops are booming on nearly every corner. For those who crave the stimulating effects of coffee, energy drinks have nearly taken over the beverage industry.
This energy obsession has lead to some very unfortunate consequences. There have been 5 deaths and 40 injuries are accredited to the Monster energy drink. The little energy shot, 5 Hour Energy, has been cited as responsible for 13 deaths and 33 hospitalizations in the past 4 years!
Caffeine is the primary ingredient in these drinks. When consumed in such large doses, it can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. The side-effects of caffeine include:
- Anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Diarrhea and digestive upset
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
Lack of education has lead to caffeine abuse and misuse. More is definitely not better when it comes to its caffeine consumption. Unfortunately, there is also no age limit on the purchase of caffeine. Even a 10 year old can walk into a store and buy a six pack of energy drinks! I am not advocating a law enforcing an age limit.
However, I do believe it is imperative that adults and children are warned of the possible dangers that lie inside these caffeine cans. Parents need to be encouraged to keep these energy drinks out of reach of children, just as they would any other drug or medication.
Maca Energy Benefits: Sustained, Safe, Energy
Although caffeine may provide the energy boost that many crave, it’s side-effects and short lived effects make it quite dangerous. Nature offers better and safer energy in a non-caffeinated way that supports the body. It’s effects are long lasting and beneficial to the body. This superior super food is called maca.
Maca is part of the tuber species of plants (like a potato) and is related to the radish. 
It is a prized food in Peru, both for it’s superior nutrition and all day energy boost. Enduring energy is just one of the many advantages of consuming maca energy. Classified by many as a “superfood,” Maca has many benefits for the body, including:
- Balances hormones
- Aphrodisiac
- Increases fertility
- Eases depression
- Stabilizes blood sugar
- Nourishes the adrenal glands
- Boosts low thyroid
- Contains many vitamins and minerals, even the energy boosting B12
Incorporating maca energy benefits into your life is quite easy and delicious. It is typically sold in a powder form, has a light, nutty flavor and can be found at nearly every health food store, or online. Start slow, as many claim that maca energy can cause some mild detoxification symptoms if consumed too rapidly.
Begin with just ½ teaspoon a day for 3-7 days, then increase to 1-2 tsp a day. You can mix the powder in a smoothie, juice or even water. Maca can also be added to soups, teas, popcorn and even bananas! Avoid taking it at night, as it’s energizing effects can keep you awake.
The energy you feel from maca benefits will be safer and very different than what you acquire from caffeine. Your heart won’t beat rapidly, you won’t feel anxious, and it doesn’t result in a quick boost followed by a crash. Maca energy encourages sustained endurance in the body. This is the kind of energy you need to make it through a busy work week!
Reward yourself with safe, nutrient dense energy! Dump your caffeine habit and try maca energy! Your body will thank you!
