But, why do we need another supplement!
Zma is one most popular supplements amongst athletes, bodybuilders and fitness junkies. It’s not a supplement to have better sex. Though there is little evidence it can increase muscle mass or make you look lean. But it can boost testosterone as it contains zinc which does keep your muscle anabolic. But again Zma can have its own pros and cons.
ZMA is a unique blend of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6, which are essential vitamins/minerals
For any strength-training or muscle-building athlete, ZMA will help improve training and energy. As well as support greater recovery. ZMA has been proven to boost anabolic hormone levels (both testosterone and IGF-1). It improves muscle strength, power, and performance.
Full form of zma:
- Zinc: It has many benefits but mostly correlates with men’s health. As you age testosterone decreases. Also, if you are an athlete or a fitness freak, too much exercise can deplete testosterone from the body. So, supplementing Zinc can improve performance. Even for women too, it can help in their PMS
- Side effects of Zinc: It is generally well tolerated. It can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and many other problems.
- Magnesium Aspartate: has a ton of benefits. it helps to reduce inflammation and relaxes your body and aids you to sleep. and as you know if you sleep better. body relaxes. it helps to reduce anxiety and depression and stress
- Side effects of Magnesium Aspartate: It’s rare to have any side effects. Still, seek medical help if you see any allergic reaction
- Vitamin B6: It increases red blood cells and keeps arteries healthy. An increase in red blood means the body is absorbing more oxygen. As a result higher metabolism in your body
- Side effects of Vitamin B6: It’s important not to take too much of any vitamins. With Vitamin B6, taking more than 200mg can lead to a loss of feeling in the arms and legs. It’s known as peripheral neuropathy
Do you need Zma or is it worth taking it?
- It all depends on you. I have been taking Zma for the last 5 years now and I have seen many benefits. The direct benefit it helps sleep like a baby. Also depends on how your lifestyle and accordingly it defines the pros and cons of Zma. For eg. My workout is very strenuous. I give my best at the gym for workouts to sprint for 5-7 mins. well, I will talk about HIIT another day.
- A quick tip: HIIT workout keeps your metabolism high for 8-10 hours even after your workout.
I got 1 rule, if I don’t sweat, I am not working out.
Who should take zma?
- Both men and women can take zma
- Yet, men should take 3 and women should take 2 tablets before going to bed. See I am 35+ and as you know testosterone keeps dropping after 25, its goto mineral for me. Low testosterone can also cause injury which makes it an essential one. Also if you are testosterone is high, your partner will also be happy. But as always, always do your own due diligence on pros and cons of Zma
LOL, you got my point.
In today’s life as you, life is full of stress. At least it would help if you had a good night’s sleep.
ZMA may also boost growth hormone (GH) levels, Many people may contest it as a placebo which I would love to debate. It definitely puts you into the anabolic stage.
But 1 thing to note is it’s definitely not a replacement for food.
But 1 thing to note is it’s definitely not a replacement for food. What about the Pros and Cons of ZMA?
- When you should take it?
- It should be taken before bed
- Don’t consume it immediately after food. at least wait for 2 hours after your dinner
- Don’t take it if you have consumed alcohol. Though there are few studies and I hardly drink alcohol. But it’s a waste if your body is already under stress from empty molecules of alcohol. LOL, instead drink more water and save the Zma for another night since its expensive
- Are there any side effects?
- See, I am not a nutritional expert. I would love to be one one-day. I would say stick to the dose. there wouldn’t be direct side effects because they are minerals and they are very important for the proper functioning of our vital organs but don’t exceed the dosage.
- Zinc: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, copper deficiency, headaches, dizziness, nutrient deficiencies, and reduced immune function
- Magnesium: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps
- Vitamin B6: nerve damage and pain or numbness in the hands or feet
Which 1 to buy?
- Do your own research, check reviews and ratings
- When I was in India, Muscle Blaze zma, it cheap and I would recommend but now in the UK, I use MP zma. It’s very cheap and a 3-month service cost me 3000 INR on sale.
Final verdict:
100% yes from me. But friends, do remember unless your fitness fundamental goals are not on point, like your diet, lifestyle and workout, taking zma will be a waste of money.
Also if you like, check my reviews on Greens Superfood Powder
It’s an add-on which will push you to the last mile, and you will see the benefits
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