Torq HMB (500g) 07

HMB has been found to slow down the degradation of muscle protein as well as enhance muscle gain, which means that it possesses both anti-catabolic and anabolic qualities. Early research has demonstrated that HMB supplementation lowers harmful blood cholesterol and helps strengthen the immune system too. HMB Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) sounds like a scary drug, but is actually a metabolite of the amino acid leucine and a naturally occuring component of mother's milk.

The research

HMB supplements were first used in the farming industry to help farmers raise leaner cattle and keep them free from infection. Scientists who studied animals taking HMB found that it increased muscle growth, immune function and reduced subcutaneous fat (the fat stored directly under the skin).

More recent research with human subjects has shown similar benefits. A highly respected research scientist called Dr Steven Nissen and his research team at Iowa State University conducted a study to determine if HMB would prevent muscle breakdown in humans undergoing resistance training and whether differing levels of protein intake would affect muscle mass or strength. They also assessed the effects of training and HMB administration on body fat and lean body mass levels.

The researchers found that HMB supplementation decreased muscle breakdown in the group that took 3grams. Muscle strength also increased by 18.4% in the 3gram group, compared with 8% in the placebo group and muscle mass also increased by 2.66lbs and 0.88lbs respectively.