Description
HMB (beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate) is a bioactive nutrient that belongs to the group of branched short-chain fatty acids. It is sometimes considered a vitamin-like factor due to its effects, although it is found naturally in small quantities in food and is also produced by the human body through the conversion of the branched-chain amino acid leucine.
Numerous studies suggest that adding HMB to the diet may support the development of lean body mass by promoting muscle protein storage and reducing fat tissue. The effects of HMB are thought to be due to its:
- Activation of kinases, which act as second messengers during the protein synthesis process.
- Interaction with kinases during the activation of initiation complexes, which trigger the elongation phase of protein synthesis.
- Inactivation of catabolic enzymes that break down muscle proteins.
- Activation of steroidogenesis, the synthesis pathway of steroid compounds, including anabolic steroid hormones such as testosterone.
- Impact on the activity of PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), which are receptors for fatty acids that stimulate the synthesis of red muscle fibers and the production of proteins responsible for the transport and burning of fatty acids.