Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyric acid (HMB), or beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate, is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine and is synthesized in the human body. It plays a part in protein synthesis and was discovered by Dr. Steve Nissen in scientific studies to purportedly increase muscle mass and decrease muscle breakdown. It should be noted however that Nissen held the original patent on the metabolite as a nutritional supplement. It can be found, in small quantities, in grapefruit, alfalfa, and catfish.
Research published in the Journal of Applied Physiology and other peer reviewed publications has shown that HMB may have an effect on increasing muscle weight and strength. A review in Nutrition & Metabolism provides an in depth (129 studies) and objective analysis of HMB research. The same study lists as HMBs proposed mechanisms of action the following:
Three grams of HMB per day may help muscles combat protein breakdown, assist in muscle repair and support increased endurance. Studies suggest its benefits may be greater for the untrained. Also, well-controlled scientific studies have found increases in muscle mass and decreases in body fat in 70 year old men. It has helped patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in hospital intensive care units, muscle wasting associated with HIV or AIDS and with cancer, and trauma victims with severe injuries.
