What is the suggested benefit of HMB supplementation?

HMB, or β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate, is a compound that is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine, and it has garnered attention for its potential benefits in muscle preservation and recovery. One of the notable benefits of HMB supplementation is its ability to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). This effect can help individuals recover more quickly from intense exercise, allowing them to train harder or more frequently without excessive discomfort.

HMB is thought to bolster muscle recovery by decreasing muscle protein breakdown, which can contribute to less soreness following exhaustive exercise. This is particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals engaging in resistance or endurance training, as it can help maintain performance and encourage greater consistency in training routines.

While HMB may also be associated with muscle mass increase, its primary and most well-documented benefit in the context of exercise recovery is its role in mitigating DOMS. Therefore, focusing on its impact on soreness and recovery is pertinent when discussing its supplementation benefits.