As conversations around aging evolve, there’s a growing focus not just on living longer but living better. In a recent Nutraceuticals World article, industry experts explore how supporting muscle health plays a vital role in enhancing health span.
One key ingredient at the center of this conversation is myHMB®, a scientifically backed ingredient that supports muscle preservation, strength, and recovery. This new approach emphasizes optimizing performance at every stage of life—from young adults staying active to older adults maintaining mobility and resilience.
Why Muscle Health Is Key to Enhancing Health Span
Enhancing health span and strength has become more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. As individuals look for ways to stay active and independent as they age, muscle health becomes one of the most important aspects of a well-rounded healthy aging strategy.
“Age-related muscle loss is a universal issue, affecting 100% of the population. Building and maintaining muscle health is critical to everyone’s quality of life as we age… myHMB® is experiencing a strong global surge in interest because of its proven muscle health benefits,” says Shawn Baier, Vice President of Business Development at TSI Group.
myHMB® (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) helps the body maintain muscle mass by reducing muscle breakdown and boost protein synthesis. This makes it an essential component of a lifestyle focused on long-term strength and resilience.
Protein Alone Isn’t Always Enough
Protein is essential for muscle maintenance, but it may not be sufficient on its own—particularly for older adults. Age-related metabolic changes can affect how efficiently the body processes protein, creating a need for additional nutritional support.
“HMB stimulates protein synthesis while simultaneously reducing protein breakdown,” Baier explains. “Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that in older adults, most optimally when combined with vitamin D. Product lines that contain protein plus HMB and vitamin D open a huge market opportunity,” says Baier.
Research suggests that combining myHMB® with vitamin D may enhance its effects, particularly in aging populations. This combination has been studied not only for its role in preserving muscle but also for its potential to help during periods of inactivity.
“Supplementation with myHMB® and vitamin D has been shown to support muscle health even without exercise,” Baier adds.
This may be especially relevant for individuals recovering from injury or illness, or those facing age-related mobility challenges. This is a broader approach to supporting muscle health beyond traditional protein intake.
The Link Between Muscle Health and Immune Function
In addition to supporting mobility and strength, muscle health has been increasingly studied for its connection to broader aspects of well-being—including immune function. Emerging research suggests that maintaining muscle mass may influence markers of inflammation, particularly in individuals with sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss).
“HMB has been shown to improve immune markers of inflammation in patients with diagnosed sarcopenia, thus showing the close relationship between muscle health and general health, including immune function,” says Baier.
There are early findings supporting the idea that muscle health may play a broader role in healthy aging than previously recognized.
Muscle Health and Everyday Function
Maintaining muscle health is increasingly recognized as an important factor in preserving physical independence and quality of life. From climbing stairs and lifting objects to staying steady on your feet, muscle strength supports a wide range of daily activities.
“Everything we do in our lives involves our muscles. Allowing them to gradually diminish jeopardizes our ability to live life on our terms,” says Baier.
By supporting muscle health, individuals may be able to preserve independence, reduce fall risk, and maintain confidence in their physical abilities. Nutrition and regular activity remain key, but research also continues to explore the potential role of ingredients like HMB in promoting muscle preservation.
The Role of Muscle Health in Enhancing Health Span
Building and maintaining strength isn’t just for athletes—it’s for everyone. Here’s why muscle health is essential for a longer, stronger life:
- Mobility & balance: Strong muscles support posture, improve stability, and reduce fall risk.
- Metabolic health: Muscle plays a key role in regulating blood sugar and supporting overall energy levels.
- Faster recovery: Whether recovering from injury or illness, muscle strength is critical to bounce back faster.
- Independence & confidence: Maintaining strength allows people to stay active, capable, and engaged as they age.
myHMB® and the Future of Healthy Aging
As research continues to evolve, muscle health is emerging as a cornerstone of healthy aging. Whether supporting strength during recovery, preserving function with age, or exploring connections to immune health, ingredients like myHMB® are helping to expand how we think about aging well.
Read the full article on Nutraceuticals World.
Explore how myHMB® supports healthy aging.
