Evidence supporting the use of: HMB Hydroxymethylbutyrate
For the health condition: Wasting

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Synopsis

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

β-Hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine and is used as a dietary supplement to support muscle mass and function. Its use to treat or support conditions characterized by muscle wasting (such as sarcopenia, cachexia, or muscle loss secondary to illness) is supported by a growing body of scientific literature, although the overall strength of evidence is moderate.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined HMB supplementation in populations at risk of muscle wasting, including elderly individuals, patients with cancer, and those recovering from surgery or chronic illness. These studies generally show that HMB supplementation can help attenuate the loss of lean body mass, improve muscle strength, and in some cases, enhance physical function. The proposed mechanisms include decreased muscle protein breakdown, improved muscle protein synthesis, and anti-inflammatory effects.

For example, a 2013 meta-analysis (Wu et al., Clinical Nutrition) found that HMB supplementation provided a modest but significant benefit in preserving lean mass in older adults and in patients with muscle-wasting conditions. However, the magnitude of benefit varies, and some studies report minimal or no effect, particularly in individuals who are already well-nourished or physically active.

Overall, HMB is recognized in clinical guidelines (e.g., ESPEN guidelines for clinical nutrition) as a potentially useful adjunct in managing muscle wasting, especially where nutritional status is compromised. However, more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to define its efficacy conclusively.

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