ZMA (supplement)

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 combination of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B₆. The formula is "patent pending" and the name "ZMA" trademarked by SNAC System Inc, also founded by Victor Conte III. ZMA does claim to raise strength levels, although studies show inconsistent results.

ZMA is a combination of two minerals, zinc and magnesium, and Vitamin B₆ or pyridoxine. All three of these compounds are important in biological processes, and while studies have shown that most Americans get enough zinc and Vitamin B₆, more than 50% don't meet the U.S. government's recommendation for magnesium.

An increase in exercise can lead to the loss of vitamins and minerals making it particularly important for bodybuilding due to rises in blood sugar and increased urination, which may result in a loss of magnesium, zinc, B₁₂, B₆, folic acid, and many other nutrients. Although drinking water re-hydrates an athlete, fruit juice, sports drinks or foods high in water such as vegetables are needed to replenish water-soluble nutrients.

The proportion of ingredients generally used in products is 20–30 mg zinc, 400–500 mg...
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