HMB
HMB (B-hydroxy B-methylbutyrate monohydrate) is the metabolite of the amino
acid leucine, and has been shown to suppress exercise-induced muscle tissue
breakdown. Supplementing with HMB may:
- Minimize protein breakdown and damage to muscle cells
- Help the body maintain an anabolic state
- Improve body composition when used with a training program*
Nutrition Info
Serving size 4 capsules
25 caps per bottle |
| Amount
Per Serving |
|
|
General Nutrition |
| Potassium |
200 mg |
| Calcium |
200 mg |
|
Micronutrients |
| Calcium B-Hydroxy B-Methylbutyrate
Monohydrate (HMB) |
1 g |
HMB Q&A
Q: What is HMB?
A: HMB stands for beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate. It's a metabolite of the
branched-chain amino acid leucine. HMB is found in foods of both plant and
animal origin, and HMB is also normally produced in the body. (Depending on the
nutritional program, from .3 grams to 1 gram of HMB is produced in the body per
day.) Its precursors are the amino acid leucine and the keto acid KIC. Certain
plants such as alfalfa and plant products such as corn silage appear to have
relatively large concentrations of HMB. Grapefruit and catfish also contain
relatively high concentrations of this nutrient. However, similar to various
vitamins and other micronutrients, it is extremely difficult and impractical to
consume enough of these foods on a regular basis to provide the full benefits of
HMB. It is probably much more practical to use a dietary supplement containing
pure HMB.
Q: How do you supplement with HMB?
A: HMB is simple and easy to use. The recommended use is to take four
capsules, three times daily with meals. That's a total of 12 capsules per day.
Some research suggests larger individuals (over 200 pounds) may need more, up to
5 or 6 grams per day. HMB can be used with a multi-nutrient/nutrition shake
product or just regular food. HMB does not eliminate the need for any other
supplement nor does HMB have to be used along with any other supplement. Of
course, those who are using HMB in an effort to stimulate gains in muscle size
and strength should obviously be engaged in regular, intense weight-training
exercise.
Q: What does HMB do?
A: Researchers are not completely certain how HMB works in the body. It
appears that this amino acid metabolite supports the body's ability to minimize
protein breakdown subsequent to stress such as intense exercise and it also may
work to preserve the integrity of cell membranes. By minimizing protein
breakdown, HMB, when combined with a
resistance-training
program, may cause an increase in muscle mass and strength. The exact
mechanism behind HMB's effectiveness will have to be determined in future
research.
Q: Does HMB cause any side effects?
A: We produce from .3 to 1 gram of HMB in our bodies per day. Also, HMB
occurs naturally in various whole foods such as grapefruit and catfish. Thus HMB
is not a drug, and studies to date suggest no adverse side effects.
Suggested Use:
As a dietary supplement, take
4 capsules 3 times per day with meals. Do not exceed recommended servings.
Consult with a physician prior to use if you have any medical conditions. Do not
use if pregnant or lactating.
Warnings:
