Frequently Asked Questions

Recent research shows that HMB combined with creatine produces greater results than either HMB or creatine alone. HMB should be taken in combination with a balanced diet containing a daily protein intake of about one gram per pound of body weight, especially if you are actively exercising. If your diet isn't balanced or your protein intake is low, then HMB should be combined with the appropriate vitamin, mineral, protein, or energy supplement to balance your diet.

Extensive clinical studies have been conducted to specifically evaluate the safety of HMB, and no negative side effects have been recorded in either men or women whether young or elderly. A summary of the effects of HMB on hematology, emotional profile, and adverse effects as measured in nine clinical studies showed only positive effects on cholesterol (7 percent decrease) and blood pressure (4.4 mm of Hg decrease).

Yes, published research results show that women who take supplemental HMB and exercise benefited from enhanced strength and lean gains and increased fat loss.

Currently all genuine sources of HMB are required to carry one or more of the following patent numbers on the label: 4,992,470, 5,348,979, 5,360,613, 6,031,000, or 6,103,764. If at least one of these patent numbers is not on the package, it is likely not HMB.

Recognized experts at major universities have been conducting HMB research on animals and humans for almost two decades. In these studies, HMB was found to have a number of beneficial effects, including producing better results faster from intense exercise. The list of HMB clinical studies is continually growing. Currently there are about 30 human clinical studies completed, many of which have been published as peer-reviewed papers, and there are still more ongoing studies with HMB.

HMB aids in increasing muscle protein (mass) in two ways:
•  Decreases protein breakdown from hard workouts.
   HMB disrupts protein breakdown by decreasing the ubiquitinproteasome proteolytic pathway.
•  Increases protein synthesis for increased muscle mass and strength.
   Several studies indicate that HMB stimulates protein synthesis through multiple mechanisms including the mTOR pathway.

Studies show that measurable increases in strength and lean body mass can occur in only a couple of weeks; however, it will most likely take three or four weeks to produce results that will also be noticed by friends and coworkers.

HMB is believed to play a significant role in the way our bodies build new muscle tissue and burn fat. When test subjects consumed supplemental HMB and engaged in weight-training exercise, HMB appeared to minimize the muscle tissue breakdown that occurs naturally after strenuous activity. With less muscle damage to repair, the body appears to speed up the rate at which it builds new muscle tissue and in turn seems to burn more fat.

HMB stands for ß-hydroxy ß-methylbutyrate, which is naturally produced in our bodies during the metabolism of the essential amino acid leucine. Leucine is a part of the food chain – we eat it every day in soybeans, beef, and fish.

The recommended dosage is three grams per day for average-size individuals. If you want to "customize" your dosage, research has shown that 38 mg/kg body weight each day is optimal.

Research indicates that HMB supplementation can benefit virtually everyone, especially those who work out and train.

Pregnant or lactating women are advised against taking HMB because safety studies have not yet been conducted for these populations. Also, individuals with any known medical problems and adolescents should consult with their physicians prior to using HMB, as they should with all dietary supplements.