Why does ZMA make you sleep better?

[EvanW25]

With all the controversy about how ZMA is a rip-off when it's just zinc, mag, and B6 (stuff you can buy at the grocery store for 1/3 of the price) I had a question I've always wondered. Why when I take ZMA do I sleep deeper and have bizarre ass dreams, but not when I suppliment with 'generics'? Is there something 'else' in the ZMA that is causing this or is the exact dosage of the ZMA that is producing this effect? Anyone...?

[pu12en12g]

With all the controversy about how ZMA is a rip-off when it's just zinc, mag, and B6 (stuff you can buy at the grocery store for 1/3 of the price) I had a question I've always wondered. Why when I take ZMA do I sleep deeper and have bizarre ass dreams, but not when I suppliment with 'generics'? Is there something 'else' in the ZMA that is causing this or is the exact dosage of the ZMA that is producing this effect? Anyone...?

In the typical "ZMA" doses, the magnesium has a calming effect on nerve impulses from what I remember. I believe the zinc was typically added more for hormonal reasons to promote deeper / quality sleep (= recovery)... but not put you to sleep.

[EvanW25]

But why does taking (even excessive) 'generic' dosages of zinc or mag not produce the same 'effects' that ZMA does...?

[pu12en12g]

But why does taking (even excessive) 'generic' dosages of zinc or mag not produce the same 'effects' that ZMA does...?

Generic Magnesium (standalone) works for MANY people.

[EvanW25]

'Works'... you mean the 'better sleep' effect or the improved test. effect?

[pu12en12g]

'Works'... you mean the 'better sleep' effect or the improved test. effect?

Better sleep... as far as I know. ZMA will only help "baseline" hormone levels if there is a deficiency (which appears to be common in athletes). In that scenario the generic should be just fine (IMO).