Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate (HMB)
What is Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate (HMB)?
When taken as recommended, HMB is typically regarded as secure. But it can also result in negative side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
The advantages of supplementing with HMB are still unknown. If HMB is effective for boosting muscle mass and strength, more research is required. HMB supplements are not advised for healthy adults who are already getting enough protein until that time.
Side effects
abdomen ache
nausea
diarrhea
vomiting
reduced appetite
headache
muscle pain
fatigue
Most of the time, these side effects are minor and disappear on their own. Stop taking HMB and see your doctor if you experience any serious side effects.
If you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications, you should consult your doctor before taking HMB because it could interact with those medications. Women who are expecting or nursing should also refrain from taking HMB supplements.
Interaction with Medications
HMB and some medicines may interact.
According to some studies, HMB may enhance leucine's effects on protein synthesis. Consequently, taking HMB with leucine may make side effects more likely.
Other amino acids, such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and HMB may also interact. Bodybuilders and athletes frequently take BCAAs to build muscle and improve strength. Combining HMB with BCAA supplements may raise the chance of adverse effects.
Dosage
HMB should be taken in doses of 3-6 grams daily. To lessen the chance of side effects, it is best to take HMB supplements with food.
The use of HMB supplements is not advised for women who are nursing or pregnant.
Where to buy
You can buy HMB supplements online and in some health food stores. However, before using any dietary supplements, it's crucial to consult your doctor.
Takeaway
A naturally occurring metabolite of the amino acid leucine is HMB. Although there is little scientific evidence to support its use in bodybuilding and strength training, it is frequently marketed as a dietary supplement. In people who are new to weightlifting, HMB may help increase muscle mass and strength, but more research is required. When used as recommended, HMB is generally regarded as safe, but it can have some side effects. Women who are expecting or nursing should refrain from taking HMB supplements. If you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications, talk to your doctor before taking HMB because it may interact with some of them.
Pharmacokinetics
Within one to three hours, HMB reaches its peak plasma concentrations after being quickly absorbed from the gut. HMB has a half-life of roughly 2 to 6 hours.
METABOLISM
HMB is metabolized by beta-oxidation in the liver, where it produces CO2 and acetoacetate. Beta-hydroxybutyrate can then be produced from acetoacetate.
elimination
HMB is eliminated as beta-hydroxybutyrate in the urine.
TOXICOLOGY
Data on the toxicology of HMB are not available. When taken as directed, it is thought to be low risk.
Precautions
The use of HMB supplements is not advised for women who are nursing or pregnant. If you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications, talk to your doctor before taking HMB because it may interact with some of them.
If you are allergic to leucine or beta-hydroxybutyrate, avoid taking HMB.
If you are expecting or nursing, do not take HMB.
If you have any health issues, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease, don't take HMB.
If you are taking any medications, including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), leucine supplements, or blood thinners, you should avoid taking HMB.