What Are The Benefits Of Zma

ZMA is a supplement made from magnesium, zinc and vitamin B6

ZMA is a supplement that is commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes. It is a combination of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B6. Bodybuilders tout the supplement for its reported ability to increase strength and because muscle endurance declines when there is a lack of zinc in the body. However, each of the components used in ZMA has its own benefits.

Magnesium

Magnesium is used by the body to convert food into energy. It is also used by the body to help in the absorption of calcium which strengthens bones and teeth. According to the website Health Learning Info, magnesium also helps to stop abnormal blood clotting in the heart and keeps blood pressure levels stable. As a result, it may lower the chance of a person suffering heart attacks or strokes, and is said to help in the recovery of either of the two. Magnesium can be found in foods such as nuts, spinach, pumpkin seeds, seafood, broccoli and bananas.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is used by the body to absorb amino acids from protein which aids the body's ability to grow muscle. It also helps break down fats and carbohydrates from the food that we eat. Other benefits include helping the body to make antibodies that keep the immune system strong. Vitamin B6 is found naturally in bananas, soybeans, potatoes, salmon, poultry, eggs and pork.

Zinc

Zinc boosts the immune system and helps to prevent colds and other viruses. It does this by improving the body's white blood cell count. It also helps the body to absorb minerals and can help prevent osteoporosis by aiding the absorption of calcium. Zinc is found naturally in red meat, oysters, poultry and beans.

Sleep

According to the website Body 2 Shape, ZMA helps an individual gain a better night's sleep if he takes the supplement 30 minutes before he goes to bed. The magnesium in ZMA extends the different stages involved in sleep and results in a deeper and more restful sleeping pattern.

Muscle Strength

A study carried out by Lorrie Brilla, a researcher at Western Washington University, found that NCAA football players increased their testosterone levels by 30 percent after taking ZMA for 8 weeks. The report also found that the footballers increased their muscle strength gains by 250 percent during this time. As a result of body testosterone increases and muscle strength, muscle mass also increases with the use of the supplement.

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