Study Shows HMB Supplementation Improves Muscle Strength and Quality in Older Adults with Sarcopenia
Promising findings highlight the potential of HMB as a preventive measure against age-related muscle loss
Sarcopenia, the age-related condition characterized by progressive muscle loss and weakness, poses significant challenges to the quality of life and independence of older adults. However, a recent study has shed light on a potential solution. According to the study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation can significantly improve muscle strength and quality, offering hope to individuals affected by sarcopenia.
The randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study, which included 35 participants aged 65 to 85, explored the effects of HMB on older adults with sarcopenia. Participants were divided into two groups, with one group receiving HMB supplementation and the other receiving a placebo. Both groups underwent resistance exercise training twice a week for a period of 12 weeks.
The study’s results revealed promising outcomes for the HMB group. Significant improvements were observed in muscle strength, physical performance, and muscle quality compared to the placebo group. Measures such as hand-strength grip tests, gait speed, and a five-time chair stand test demonstrated marked enhancements in the HMB group after the 12-week trial. Additionally, inflammatory markers were found to decrease in the HMB group, indicating a potential positive impact on overall health.
Shawn Baier, the Vice President of Business Development at TSI Group, expressed enthusiasm about the study’s findings. “HMB, in conjunction with other nutrients, has been shown to have an effect on muscle wasting,” said Baier. “From TSI Group’s perspective, this is another confirmatory study that takes it one step further by demonstrating HMB’s impact on a sarcopenic population, instead of simply hypothesizing about it.”
The study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy of HMB. TSI Group, the manufacturer of the HMB ingredient myHMB, highlights that more than 50 published studies, including those funded by the US National Institutes of Health, have consistently demonstrated the health benefits of this nutrient.
As individuals naturally experience declines in muscle reserves with age, the findings of this study suggest that being proactive is crucial in maintaining muscle health. “The earlier we can intervene, the better,” explains Baier. “We now have evidence that HMB helps muscle health across all categories, even after muscle loss has progressed into sarcopenia. It makes sense that HMB be considered a great first-line defense against age-related muscle loss.”
Sarcopenia, a condition affecting millions worldwide, has long been a challenge for healthcare professionals. However, with the promising results of this study, the potential of HMB supplementation in mitigating muscle loss and improving the quality of life for sarcopenia patients is garnering attention. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate and expand upon these findings, offering hope for a proactive approach to maintaining muscle health in older adults.
Note: This article is based on a recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging. Readers are encouraged to consult with healthcare professionals before initiating any dietary supplementation.