You have probably heard of ZMA complex. But, do you know the science behind it and exactly how it assists in recovery? Does it work? Is there a way to improve it to provide additional benefits beyond muscular development?
First off, its is important to remember that your muscles do not grow at the gym or from your healthy and balanced diet! The only time they are is when you are getting some shut eye. So it goes to reason that more and better quality sleep will lead to better muscle tone and over all maximizes the benefits of each workout.
A ZMA complex will Improve sleep cycles with a synergistic blend of two minerals, zinc and magnesium, and Vitamin B-6. All of these compounds are extremely important in biological processes.
-Vitamin B6 is needed for proper brain function
-Zinc stimulates the activity of over 100 enzymes in the body
-Magnesium is vital to the process of the body creating natural melatonin and also balances stress hormones.
But could it be better?
One important thing to understand is the when your body entrees the REM sleep cycle that is when vitally important healing and recovery processes are in high gear. Your muscle fibers that you annihilated in the gym with your brutal workout are now healing back stronger than before. Your body needs the important nutrients and minerals at this time so your healing process have the fuel need to operate properly. It is a opportunistic time to slip in vitamins and minerals that boost the immune system and mental functions.
Recovery PM™ (made by Vital Supplements™) fills those gaps. These are the additional ingredients above the basic ZMA complex.
– Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid (GABA)
This is a amino acid which acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA has a calming affect because it inhibits nerve transmission in the brain. It also boost natural production of Human Growth Hormone. In a nutshell, it has the opposite affect on the body that caffeine does.
– Dandelion Root
Dandelion root has various heath benefits. Studies have shown that it boots immune functions and removes toxins from the blood. It contain essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation throughout the body.
-Fenugreek Seed
Fenugreek Seed is a antioxidant that will that has excellent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also rich in niacin and vitamin B3 which boosts overall health and promotes healthy skin.
Recovery PM is best taken 30-45 minutes before you fall asleep. This ensures that the supplements will be released when it is most beneficial for your natural sleep cycles.It is by no means a miracle supplement, but a common sense supplementation that will maximize your recovery.
Vincent Kruger
Contributing Editor, Bodybuilder
