Original Article: Physical Magazine
May 2015
By Dave Hawk
Q: I used to do strongman competitions, but now I'm bodybuilding. Is ZMA a good supplement to improve muscle growth?
A: I've personally used ZMA and can't say enough good things about it. ZMA (zinc magnesium aspartate) is a natural supplement that increases anabolic hormone levels while reducing cortisol levels. On the one hand it helps build muscle, and on the other it helps prevent muscle wasting. ZMA naturally aids the overall metabolic process that improves muscle energy support.
Authentic ZMA products state "ZMA" on the label and are formulated with highly bioavailable zinc mono-L-methionine sulfate (L-Optizinc), Zinc/magnesium aspartate and vitamin B6. You can find ZMA in many top brands as a standalone powder or part of a supplement mix.
For any strength-training or muscle-building athlete, ZMA will help improve training, energy, and lean mass gains as well as support greater recovery. ZMA has been clinically proven to boost anabolic hormone levels (both testosterone and IGF-1), which improves muscle strength, power, and performance.