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Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, also known as HMB, is a
substance naturally found in living organisms as a metabolite of the
essential amino acid L-leucine. It has been reported that
preliminary evidence suggests that HMB may possess anticatabolic and
immunomodulatory properties. HMB is popular nutritional supplement
among athletes involved in intense physical
activity.
Suggested Benefits of
HMB
Similar to other amino acids, HMB appears to
play a role in the synthesis of certain proteins, including the type
protein used by the body to build muscle tissue.
Animal
studies suggest that HMB may be able to improve the growth of lean
muscle tissue. However, these findings have not been substantiated
by human studies and there is no conclusive evidence to support the
link between HMB and increased muscle development and endurance in
athletes. Notwithstanding, one study involving participants in a
weight-lifting program taking 3 grams of supplemental HMB, compared
a placebo group to experience greater gains of muscle mass and
strength. However, a double-blind controlled trial found no effect
of 3 grams per day of HMB for four weeks on body composition or
exercise performance in 41 weight-training football
players.
Dosage and
Administration
Most people do not need to use HMB.
For those involved in regular exercise that do choose to take this
supplement, the research generally uses 3 grams of HMB per day in
combination with resistive exercise, such as weight
lifting.
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