Index: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ZMA (Zinc monomethionine aspartate and Magnesium Aspartate) is a supplement used by bodybuilders and athletes. It was developed by Victor Conte (founder of BALCO Laboratories in Burlingame, California) and is a blend of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B6. It is used because research has suggested that it raises testosterone and IGF-1 levels which aids gains in muscle size and strength. Studies have also shown that ZMA increases the quality of sleep - helping the body repair itself after a hard exercise.A deficiency in zinc and magnesium is common in the general population. However, in athletes and very active people it is even more common due to these minerals being lost during exercise.
The proportion of ingredients generally used in products is 20-30mg Zinc to 400-500mg Magnesium.
ZMA use is not banned by any athletic organisations.
1 Scientific Study using ZMA
A study was undertaken on NCAA Football players during a 8 week spring training program. 12 took a ZMA tablet each evening and 15 used a placebo. The results showed:
- StrengthSee: Strength is a rap compilation presented by Asiatic Warriors Strength of materials in physics, engineering and materials science Physical strength of organisms' means (especially the muscles of most metazoa) of locomotion and movement The word strengt
ZMA: 11.6% increase, Placebo: 4.6% increase
- IGF-1
ZMA: 3.6% increase, Placebo: 21.5% decrease
(L.R. Brilla and V. Conte, "A novel zinc and magnesium formulation [ZMA] increases anabolic hormones and strength in athletes," Sports Medicine, Training and Rehabilitation Journal, in press. November 1999)
2 External Links
Bodybuilding
Read more »