Protein may be the “hero nutrient” of sports nutrition but pairing it with HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) unlocks even greater benefits for muscle health, recovery, and strength. 

 

Why Combine Protein and HMB? 

Protein is essential for building and maintaining lean muscle, but research shows its benefits are significantly enhanced when combined with HMB. HMB, a metabolite of leucine, works to reduce muscle protein breakdown and support faster recovery.1, 2 Together, protein and HMB create a powerful synergy that helps preserve and build muscle mass more effectively than protein alone. 

This combination is especially important for: 

  • Athletes who want to maximize training results3 
  • Aging adults looking to maintain mobility and strength4 
  • Individuals on GLP-1 medications where reduced appetite may limit protein intake 
  • Anyone recovering from illness, injury, or surgery and seeking to protect muscle mass 

 

Highlighted in SupplySide Supplement Journal 

The July 2025 issue of SupplySide Supplement Journal spotlighted the growing importance of protein + HMB in active nutrition. The article explains how HMB is already being used in leading formulas like Abbott’s Ensure Enlive, which delivers 20 g of protein plus 2 g of HMB per serving for muscle preservation in older adults. 

Supplement researcher Ralf Jäger, Ph.D. FISSN CISSN, noted that this protein-HMB synergy is also highly relevant for today’s GLP-1 users, who often consume less protein due to suppressed appetite. By combining HMB with quality protein, including plant-based proteins like soy, studies show improved protein balance and better lean mass retention. 

The message is clear: protein and HMB aren’t just for elite athletes. This science-backed pairing offers benefits for everyday consumers who want to maintain muscle health, strength, and vitality. 

 

Learn More About Protein + myHMB® 

At TSI Group, we believe in making the science of muscle health accessible and practical. That’s why we developed myHMB® and launched a website to help consumers understand the importance of muscle health—and how HMB can be a practical solution. We’ve also created a dedicated Protein + myHMB® page, where you can explore: 

  • The science behind the synergy 
  • How protein and myHMB® work together to protect lean mass 
  • The latest research on benefits for athletes, aging populations, and weight management 

 

Read the full SupplySide Supplement Journal feature to see how experts are highlighting protein + HMB as a breakthrough in active nutrition. Then, visit our Protein + myHMB® Combination Page to discover how this duo can support your own strength and recovery goals. 

[add Protein + myHMB slider] 

 

References 

  1. Smith HJ, Mukerji P, Tisdale MJ. Attenuation of proteasome-induced proteolysis in skeletal muscle by {beta}-hydroxy-{beta}-methylbutyrate in cancer-induced muscle loss. Cancer Res. 2005;65(1):277-283. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15665304/ 
  2. Knitter AE, Panton L, Rathmacher JA, Petersen A, Sharp R. Effects of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate on muscle damage after a prolonged run. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2000;89(4):1340-1344. doi:10.1152/jappl.2000.89.4.1340. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11007567/  
  3. Nissen SL, Sharp RL. Effect of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains with resistance exercise: a meta-analysis. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2003;94(2):651-659. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00755.2002. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12433852/  
  4. Baier S, Johannsen D, Abumrad N, Rathmacher JA, Nissen S, Flakoll P. Year-long changes in protein metabolism in elderly men and women supplemented with a nutrition cocktail of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB), L-arginine, and L-lysine. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2009;33(1):71-82. doi:10.1177/0148607108322403. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19164608/  
  5. Holeček M. Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate supplementation and skeletal muscle in healthy and muscle-wasting conditions. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle. 2017;8(4):529-541. doi:10.1002/jcsm.12208. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5566641/  
  6. Rittig N, Bach E, Thomsen HH, et al. Anabolic effects of leucine-rich whey protein, carbohydrate, and soy protein with and without β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) during fasting-induced catabolism: A human randomized crossover trial. Clin Nutr. 2017;36(3):697-705. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2016.05.004. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27265181/  
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