How a ZMA Health Supplement Can Benefit You :

ZMA is a nutritional supplement that is comprised of the minerals Zinc and Magnesium Aspartate. It also includes the vitamin B6. It is a patented formula developed by Victor Conte. The combination is beneficial for bodybuilders and athletes for many reasons. Although this unique supplement was until recently only known within the muscle building community, it is quickly gaining popularity among the general public as its health benefits are increasing talked about and studied.

Extreme exercise sessions can decrease levels of testosterone in athletes and bodybuilders. Testosterone is an important anabolic hormone that aids muscle growth as well as sexual health. ZMA is a good way to raise your free testosterone back to optimal levels. Though women don't have the same levels of testosterone as men, it's still an important factor in their muscle growth. Research as proven time and again that increased testosterone levels aid not only in muscle recovery, but also in muscle growth.

One advantage of taking ZMA supplements that is sometimes overlooked is its ability to assist individuals in falling and staying asleep. When taken before bedtime ZMA acts as a natural sedative. It improves REM sleep which aids in muscle recovery. It also helps to raise growth hormone levels. Lack of quality sleep can impair the growth and recovery of muscles as well as compromise your immune system. A good night's sleep is important to feel energy the next day. For these reasons and many others, quality sleep is an important factor in any fitness program.

ZMA should be taken 30 - 60 minutes before bedtime and two hours after eating your last meal. It's often suggested it shouldn't be taken with other supplements. Although a doctor should be consulted before taking any supplement that affects hormone levels, most of the individuals using ZMA commonly use supplements like protein powders and creatine.

The mix of ZMA is approximately 675 mg of magnesium, 22 mg of B6, and 45 mg of zinc. Check labels for exact proportions. Not all supplements are in the same proportions. The B6 vitamin is important because it helps the body absorb the minerals correctly.

ZMA should not be taken with calcium because it blocks the absorption of zinc.

The best way to test to see if a supplement is right for you, is simply by taking it for 60 days. Find out how your body reacts to it and how you feel after a consistent trial period.