Fights Free Radicals
Maca root contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause damage to cells, potentially leading to cancer. One study discovered that the antioxidants in maca root could help prevent some types of cancer. Another study found that a particular type of antioxidant called carotenoids can help fight free radicals and reduce cancer risk.
They’re produced by stress, smoking, and pollution. Antioxidants protect against the damage caused by free radicals by donating an electron to them instead of being oxidized (damaged). Antioxidants in maca include cinnamic acid derivatives and hydroxycinnamic acids, which may also help reduce inflammation caused by free radicals.