HMB Supplement May Help Support Muscle Performance

Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine. HMB can help support muscle formation and exercise performance. According to a recent study, HMB may help improve muscle function and mass in people with liver cirrhosis.

Participants in the study included 24 adults with liver cirrhosis. They were given 3 grams of HMB or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The researchers evaluated muscle function, muscle mass, and liver function at baseline, week 12, and week 24.

Participants in the HMB group saw a statistically significant increase in muscle function and an increase in quadricep muscle mass. They also saw improvements in liver function.

The study was conducted by researchers from Sapienza University. It was published online ahead of print on July 2, 2021, in the journal Nutrients.