Muscle loss can happen quickly during surgery recovery, reduced activity, or as we age. HMB is a clinically researched nutrient that helps support muscle preservation and strength when your body needs it most.
So what is it?
Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, more commonly known as HMB, is a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine. It plays a role in helping prevent the breakdown of muscle tissue.
You may have read a lot about the importance of protein during surgery recovery, but what makes HMB different?
Can’t I just get it from food sources?
Rich sources of leucine such as dairy, eggs, and chicken are important for supporting recovery. However, only about 5% of leucine is converted into HMB. Because of this limited conversion, it is difficult to obtain enough HMB from food alone to achieve a beneficial effect. Supplemental HMB is often needed.
How does it work?
HMB affects both muscle protein synthesis (the building of muscle) and muscle protein breakdown. Daily supplementation of 3 grams of HMB has been shown to increase muscle mass and decrease muscle damage.
Mend uses myHMB in its products, which is the most clinically researched form of HMB with over 150 human studies. It is a USP-verified ingredient, meaning it meets regulatory requirements for identity, strength, and purity through third-party certification.
Clinical outcomes associated with HMB
- Supports healthy aging by improving physical function without exercise
- Helps maintain strength during surgery recovery
- Improves muscle health in older adults (60+ years) with sarcopenia when combined with resistance training
- Helps prevent age-related muscle loss and preserve strength and body composition in bedridden or sedentary older adults (65+ years)
Who might benefit from HMB?
Recovering from Injury or Illness
Periods of bed rest or reduced mobility due to injury or illness can lead to muscle disuse atrophy, which is a rapid decline in muscle mass and strength. Research suggests HMB may help prevent or reduce muscle breakdown during these periods, supporting a smoother recovery process.
Older Adults and Sedentary Individuals
As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass, a condition known as sarcopenia. This can reduce strength, balance, and overall independence. Studies show that HMB supplementation may help slow muscle loss and improve strength and function, particularly in sedentary older adults who are not regularly engaging in resistance training.
Putting it all together
HMB is a promising supplement for preserving muscle mass, especially for older adults, sedentary individuals, or those recovering from illness or injury. While it is not a magic solution, it can be a valuable part of a comprehensive nutrition plan that supports muscle health and quality of life.
As with any supplement, consult a healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
Products that include HMB
- Repair & Recover: Daily – 3g HMB per serving
- Repair & Recover: Surgery – 3g HMB per serving (2 scoops)
- Regenerate – 1.5g HMB per serving
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This article was written by Katie Frushour, MS, RD, CSSD, a dietitian at Mend.
References
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Wu, H., Xia, Y., Jiang, J., et al. (2015). Effect of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate supplementation on muscle loss in older adults. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 61(2), 168–175.
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Costa Riela, N. A., Guimarães, M. M. A., Almeida, D. O., & Araujo, E. M. Q. (2021). Effects of HMB supplementation on elderly body composition and muscle strength. Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism, 77(1), 16–22.
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Nishizaki, K., Ikegami, H., Tanaka, Y., et al. (2015). Effects of HMB supplementation on postoperative recovery after total knee arthroplasty. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 24(3), 412–420.
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