A simple test of handgrip strength can reveal a great deal about overall health and longevity.
Research consistently links grip strength to muscle health, functional capacity, and even long-term health outcomes. As we age, maintaining muscle strength is critical for preserving independence, mobility, and quality of life (Dodds et al., 2018).
Handgrip Strength: A Window into Future Health
Handgrip strength is more than just a measure of hand function – it reflects overall muscle health. Studies show that individuals with lower grip strength in midlife are more likely to experience disability later in life. Recent research also indicates that reduced grip strength is associated with a 33-69% higher risk of mortality in adults over 50 (McGrath et al., 2024).
For healthcare professionals, grip strength testing is a simple but powerful tool to assess aging-related muscle decline. For individuals, it serves as a clear reminder of the importance of proactive muscle health strategies.
The Role of HMB in Muscle Health
While grip strength can signal the state of muscle health, the bigger question is: How can we help mitigate muscle loss as we age? One scientifically backed solution is HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate), a compound known for its ability to preserve and enhance muscle strength.
HMB works through a dual mechanism – stimulating muscle protein synthesis while reducing muscle protein breakdown. This makes it a powerful ally in combating age-related muscle decline.
Clinical studies highlight HMB’s benefits:
- Increased grip strength in older women who supplemented with HMB and amino acids for 12 weeks, while the placebo group saw a decline. (Flakoll et al., 2004)
- Greater improvements in grip strength in sarcopenic older adults combining HMB with resistance training versus training alone. (Yang et al., 2023)
- Long-term benefits in non-exercising older adults, where HMB combined with Vitamin D led to significant improvements in grip strength and physical function over a year. (Rathmacher et al., 2020)
Handgrip Strength Test: A Smarter Approach to Aging
Handgrip strength testing is a simple yet effective way to assess muscle health, and HMB provides a proven nutritional strategy to support it. As healthcare systems face the challenge of an aging population, integrating HMB supplementation into daily routines could play a critical role in helping individuals maintain strength, mobility, and independence.
At TSI Group, we are committed to advancing muscle health solutions. myHMB® is at the forefront of this movement, delivering clinically validated muscle health benefits to support healthier aging.
To read the full article on this topic please visit NutraIngredients.
For more in depth information on handgrip strength and its correlation with healthy aging, please download our position paper.
