Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate) is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine and has been studied primarily for its effects on muscle mass, strength, and muscle preservation. Scientific research supports the use of HMB to reduce muscle protein breakdown, promote muscle retention, and enhance recovery, particularly in populations at risk for muscle wasting, such as elderly individuals, patients with chronic diseases, and those undergoing periods of muscle disuse (e.g., bed rest). Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that HMB supplementation can help attenuate the loss of lean muscle mass and improve muscle function in these populations.

For example, studies in older adults have demonstrated that HMB supplementation (usually at doses of 1.5-3 grams per day) can help maintain or modestly increase muscle mass and strength, especially when combined with resistance exercise. In clinical settings, HMB has shown benefits in preserving muscle mass in conditions of cachexia or sarcopenia. However, while evidence is supportive, the magnitude of effect is generally moderate, and not all studies are uniformly positive. There is less direct evidence for HMB specifically improving "muscle tone" in the sense of neurological muscle tension or firmness, but its role in supporting muscle mass and function underlies its use for related conditions characterized by muscle loss or weakness.

Overall, the use of HMB for supporting muscle tone/lack thereof is scientifically grounded, but the strength of evidence is intermediate and may depend on individual circumstances and concurrent interventions like exercise.

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