Peak Body ZMA is a unique anabolic mineral support formula containing Zinc L-monomethionine (L-Optizinc) covalently-bound zinc and magnesium aspartate and Vitamin B6. Radically different to regular, poor quality zinc and magnesium compounds, ZMA was specifically designed to optimise absorption of zinc and magnesium (two potentially highly anabolic minerals) during peak times of muscle repair and anabolic activity.

What does ZMA do?
In a landmark double-blind, placebo controlled study conducted with NCAA college football players, researchers at Western Washington University found that after a period of ZMA supplementation, the following benefits occurred:

Increased total testosterone levels (32.4%)
Increased free testosterone levels (33.5%)
Increased muscle strength (11.6%)
Increased IGF-1 levels (3.6%)
Increased plasma zinc levels (29.1%)
Increased plasma magnesium levels(6.2%)

Whilst the last two observations simply prove that the combination of minerals in ZMA can be absorbed efficiently, the first set of findings are quite startling and could prove extremely beneficial, particularly to the strength athlete.

Zinc and magnesium deficiencies are common in both the general population and the athletic world. To illustrate this point, in 1998 the mineral status of 250 NFL players were tested. Over 70% were either depleted or deficient in both Zinc and magnesium. Rigorous exercise is the main reason for zinc and magnesium loss, especially in athletes, however as most Zinc and magnesium containing products are of less than top quality, these deficiencies are rarely replenished.

As mentioned earlier, the zinc present in ZMA bears very little resemblance to the zinc products you can buy for £5 at the local health store. It’s like saying all proteins are equal because they contain whey protein. WE of course know that the difference between poor quality whey powder and whey protein isolate is massive.

The Powerful effects of Zinc.
When absorbed efficiently, zinc is an extremely anabolic mineral required for the production of growth hormone and testosterone, two extremely anabolic, fat-burning hormones that promote tissue repair, healing and muscular hypertrophy. Zinc also reduces fatigue during intense weight training sessions by minimising the build-up of lactic acid inside muscle tissue.

Magnesium- As specially bonded Zinc/magnesium aspartate
Magnesium aids in the transportation of oxygen to muscle tissue, which in turn promotes strength, endurance and relaxation. Magnesium also activates enzymes necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids.

When to take ZMA?
During sleep stages 3 and 4 (about 90 minutes into deep sleep) a large burst of growth hormone is released by the pituitary gland. The chief synergists that potentiate the anabolic effects of growth hormone are zinc and magnesium, plus other anabolic hormones like testosterone. Plasma levels of ZMA will be at their highest 90 minutes after taking the product so the best time to take ZMA.

Who would benefit from using ZMA?
A surprising number of athletes can be deficient in Zinc.
Anyone involved in strenuous activity has the potential to be zinc deficient due to the amount lost during perspiration. However many forms of zinc sold on the market will not be absorbed efficiently. The Zinc and magnesium used in ZMA is of a highly-efficient standardisation and will stand a far greater chance of providing the undoubted benefits of these two highly-important minerals than other, inferior brands.