Effects of ZMA

ZMA, also known as zinc magnesium aspartate, is a dietary supplement that is used primarily by male athletes who are looking to build muscle mass and increase their body strength. The supplement is used by many athletes including, runners, tennis players and cyclists.

Athletic Enhancement

The zinc in ZMA helps to promote a healthy immune system and lessen the time for a head cold. According to Men's Health, athletes that followed a ZMA regimen gained twice as much muscle mass as those who took a placebo. They also experienced a 30 percent increase in their level of testosterone as compared to only 10 percent in those taking the placebo.

Supplemental Effects

There are some disadvantages associated with taking ZMA. Because it does contain zinc as well as magnesium and B6, using this supplement can actually give you more of these minerals and vitamins than your system needs. Too much zinc will automatically cause a copper deficiency, and excess amounts of magnesium causes diarrhea. In addition, there can be compatibility issues between ZMA and prescribed medications such as Lipitor and Lisinopril. Because of these factors, it is strongly recommended that you check with your physician before starting on the ZMA supplement.

Results of Scientific Studies

A recent study done by the National Center for Biotechnology Information reported that the ZMA supplement does not live up to all of its claims. They found that ZMA taken in recommended dosages does not further enhance the muscle mass and body strength in males more than any other supplement would.