Page 65 - FoodFocusThailand No.206 MAY 2023

STRATEGIC R&D

As the population ages, maintaining This is where HMB supplementation comes in. HMB is readily available in various
muscle health becomes an supplement forms (tablets, capsules, powders, functional foods, etc.) making it
increasingly important concern for easy to incorporate into a healthy diet. However, it is important to choose a high-
quality HMB supplement from a reputable and safe manufacturer.
older adults who want to maintain HMB is a promising ingredient that can help older adults maintain muscle mass
their mobility and independence. and strength, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of falls. By incorporating HMB
The U.S. Census predicts that by into a healthy diet and exercise routine, aging adults can support their muscle
health and enjoy a higher quality of life.
2030, people aged 65 and older
will outnumber children, making
healthy aging a top priority for More Information Service Info C010
many. Fortunately, advances in
nutritional science have led to
the development of innovative
ingredients like HMB, which can
help aging individuals maintain
muscle mass and function as
they age.

HMB, or beta-hydroxy-beta-methyl
butyrate, is a metabolite of the amino
acid leucine. It has been shown to have
anti-catabolic effects, meaning it can
help slow down muscle breakdown. This
makes it particularly useful for older
adults who may be at risk for muscle loss
due to aging or other factors.
HMB boosts muscle health in older
adults by both stimulating protein
synthesis and reducing muscle
breakdown. Higher Vitamin D3 levels are
associated with greater strength and
superior muscle function, especially in
older adults. Studies indicate that the
combination of HMB and Vitamin D3 not
only improves muscle health but muscle
function as well in older adults. A recent
yearlong study even shows that the
benefits of HMB and Vitamin D3 are
apparent in both exercising and non-
exercising older adults.
In addition to its anti-catabolic effects,
HMB has also been shown to help
protein perform more optimally. This is
important for older adults who may have
increased protein needs in order to
maintain muscle mass and strength.
HMB’s unique dual mechanism of action
helps our bodies utilize the protein and
amino acids consumed and maximize
their benefits for overall muscle health.
While HMB can be found in small
amounts in foods such as beef, soybeans,
alfalfa, and catfish, it can be difficult to
consume enough through diet alone.

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