ZMA is an anabolic mineral formula. It is comprised of Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate, Magnesium Aspartate and vitamin B-6.
It has been scientifically shown to improve the production of anabolic hormones when taken at night. Thus it directly contributes to muscle building and strengthening.
It is best to take ZMA on an empty stomach about 45 minutes before bedtime. It is important to avoid ingesting Calcium with ZMA. Calcium competes with Zinc for absorption by the body.
A good ratio for a ZMA formula is 30mg of Zinc to 450mg of Magnesium. This ratio has been shown to elevate testosterone levels by 30%. (Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Vol. 31, No. 5, May 1999)
Zinc depletion is common in people who lift weights,it causes rapid degeneration of muscle endurance and exercise capacity.
There are many of ZMA formulations on the market, but Twinlabs makes a very economical one with no extra junk to drive up the price.
Along with creatine monohydrate, ZMA is perhaps one of the most effective supplements for increasing strenth and muscle mass.