Mike Montemarano, Associate Editor for Nutraceuticals World, breaks down HMB, its benefits, market insights, and supplement formulation.

From aging adults to competitive athletes, HMB has been a staple dietary supplement.  Let’s dive into what it is, why it’s a mainstay in muscle-building supplements and insights for its future.

 

What is HMB?

Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine.  HMB has gained attention in the nutraceutical industry for its pivotal role in supporting muscle health and performance. Discovered in the 1990s by Drs. Steven L. Nissen and Naji N. Abumrad, HMB has become a staple in supplements aimed at enhancing muscle mass, strength, and overall physical function.

How HMB Works

HMB works through a dual mechanism of action that makes it unique among muscle health ingredients. First, it reduces muscle protein breakdown by inhibiting the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, a major enzymatic pathway responsible for protein degradation in muscles. This anti-catabolic effect helps protect muscle tissue, especially during periods of physical stress or aging.

Simultaneously, HMB stimulates muscle protein synthesis by activating the mTOR pathway, a key regulator of muscle growth. This dual action – reducing muscle breakdown and promoting muscle growth – gives HMB an edge over other ingredients, such as leucine, which mechanism of action focuses on protein synthesis.

“HMB’s significant reduction in muscle protein breakdown provides a unique advantage. This dual benefit is especially important during periods of muscle stress, such as intense training, caloric restriction, or aging.,” said Shawn Baier, Vice President of Business Development at TSI Group, the manufacturer of myHMB®.

 

Health Benefits of HMB

HMB’s benefits extend beyond muscle growth in athletes. It has been shown to enhance strength, endurance, and recovery, making it a valuable supplement for both recreational and elite athletes. Moreover, HMB is particularly effective in older adults, helping to combat age-related muscle loss and improving physical function.

Clinical studies have also demonstrated HMB’s potential in preserving muscle mass during periods of inactivity, such as bed rest or recovery from surgery. Furthermore, recent research suggests that HMB may support weight management by improving body composition and preserving muscle mass.

 

Manufacturing HMB Supplements

HMB is available in two primary forms: Calcium HMB and HMB Free Acid (HMB-FA). Calcium HMB, the more established form, is a white crystalline powder that offers a steady release and absorption profile. On the other hand, HMB-FA boasts higher bioavailability and faster absorption, making it a preferred choice for more immediate benefits.

Both forms of HMB are versatile and can be incorporated into various supplement formats, including capsules, tablets, powders, beverages, and bars. This flexibility allows manufacturers to tailor HMB supplements to specific consumer needs, whether for sports nutrition, healthy aging, or weight management.

 

Market Trends and Insights

The global HMB market is experiencing significant growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% through 2030. The market has evolved from targeting primarily athletes to encompassing a broader audience, including older adults and individuals focused on weight management.

Sports nutrition remains a stronghold for HMB, with single-ingredient formulations thriving, particularly those featuring HMB-FA. Brands like MuscleTech and Optimum Nutrition emphasize HMB’s dual mechanisms of action and clinical backing to appeal to athletes seeking performance enhancement and recovery support.

In the healthy aging sector, HMB is often combined with Vitamin D3 to enhance its efficacy, especially in older adults. Companies like Life Extension and Power Life by Tony Horton offer HMB-based products designed to preserve muscle function and combat age-related muscle loss.

The rise of GLP-1 medications for weight loss has also sparked interest in HMB’s potential to preserve muscle mass during rapid weight reduction. Products like Legion Forge highlight HMB’s ability to protect lean muscle while promoting fat loss, catering to consumers seeking comprehensive weight management solutions.

 

Continuously Evolving

As research on HMB continues to expand, its applications in sports nutrition, healthy aging, and weight management are likely to grow. With its proven benefits and versatile formulation options, HMB stands out as a key ingredient in the evolving landscape of nutraceuticals.

 

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