And....ZMA dose what again???

ZMA EXPLAINED

If you've ever attempted to be healthy or if your and avid heath enthusiast you've probably heard of ZMA a time or two. Today I'm going to walk you through what exactly is this mystery ingredient and what the benefits of ZMA are. 

Zinc is most known for fighting infection. It is linked with a heightened immune system. Zinc also offers protection to the liver, assists in deterring enlargement of the prostate gland and maintains reproductive organ health. It regulates the production of testosterone as well.  In addition to all of that it is essential for protein synthesis and cellular energy.

Magnesium is essential for muscle and heart health. It is also used for mood regulation and it is essential for maintaining the balance of sodium and potassium in cells. Magnesium is required for over 300 enzymes in the body and is needs to many steps in energy production.

The combination of zinc and magnesium is used among many athletes and fitness enthusiasts. A study was conducted a few years ago with college football players for 8 weeks. All of the players were experienced weight lifters. One group of players was given a dose of the magnesium and zinc before bed on an empty stomach. Another group was given a placebo. The study showed an increase in leg strength of 11.6% compared to the placebo group of 4.6%. Also an increase of 30% testosterone compared to the placebo group which had a decrease of 10% testosterone.

The combination of zinc and magnesium is in aspartate form and vitamin b6 is added to the combination for increased absorption.

Along with muscular benefits of zinc and magnesium there are several other healthy benefits as well like:

1.       Boost sexual health and testosterone levels. Increase man’s fertility, potency, sex drive and long term sexual health.

2.       Increase sperm strength and endurance.

3.       Fight acne-some forms of acne are caused by zinc deficiency. Zinc helps heal acne faster and regulates skin’s oil gland.

4.       May prevent and treat baldness.

5.       May reverse osteoporosis- magnesium deficiency alters calcium metabolism which results in osteoporosis.

6.       Prevent cardiovascular disease-may reduce chance of having a stroke. A deficiency increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythms.

7.       Regulates blood pressure.

8.       Can be used to treat migraines, insomnia, and depression.

Zinc and Magnesium are both considered safe to take but there are some possible side effects. Zinc may interfere with your body’s ability to absorb copper and iron. If you are taking these supplements take those hours apart. Zinc and magnesium may reduce the absorption of antibiotics. If taking antibiotics be sure to take zinc and magnesium a few hours after. Overdosing on zinc may cause nausea and it may also undo the benefits they provide by reducing the functioning of the immune system. Be sure to consult your physician before taking zinc and magnesium if you are on any type of medication.

The USDA recommended dose for ages 19 and above is 320mg magnesium and 8mg zinc for women and 420mg magnesium and 11mg zinc for men.

Food sources that contain magnesium are whole grain breads, cereals, rice and dark green leafy vegetables. Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, but red meat and poultry provide the majority of zinc in the American diet. Other good food sources include beans, nuts, certain types of seafood (such as crab and lobster), whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals, and dairy products. 

In addition to food, there are several great supplements that contain ZMA like Met-Rx ZMA and Resurrect P.M. by Ronnie Coleman Signature Series. Feel free to stop by and we’ll show you all the products we have that can help get more ZMA in your diet!

Till next time,

Seth