Sarcopenia is a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass and function that occurs with aging, affecting approximately 10-30% of individuals over 65 years of age. Beyond reducing mobility and increasing fall risk, sarcopenia is closely linked to metabolic syndrome, immune dysfunction, and elevated mortality. In the Functional Medicine Structural Integrity framework, sarcopenia is understood as the combined result of imbalanced protein synthesis and breakdown, mitochondrial decline, and chronic inflammation.
β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine, with approximately 5% of leucine converting to HMB in the body. HMB's primary function is to inhibit muscle protein breakdown by suppressing the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and autophagy-lysosome pathways, thereby reducing muscle protein degradation.
Multiple meta-analyses show that daily supplementation with 3g HMB (taken 3 times per day) for 2-12 weeks significantly increases muscle mass and strength in older adults and bedridden patients. In active populations, HMB reduces exercise-induced elevations in muscle damage markers (CK, LDH) and accelerates post-exercise recovery. Between the two forms—HMB-Ca (calcium salt) and HMB-FA (free acid)—HMB-FA has a faster absorption rate and higher bioavailability.
The synergy between HMB and leucine is a classic combination for muscle support. Leucine promotes muscle protein synthesis by activating the mTOR pathway, while HMB reduces muscle protein breakdown by inhibiting the UPS pathway, creating dual protection through "synthesis plus anti-catabolism." Combined with creatine (to boost ATP reserves) and glutamine (to support immune and gut health), this forms a comprehensive solution for muscle repair and performance support.
Dynastar Group (Hong Kong) offers muscle repair and sports support formulas (BCAA + Glutamine + Creatine + Whey Protein + HMB) in the Bone & Structural Integrity Series, with customization available for powder and capsule forms. The formulation follows a comprehensive muscle protection logic: "promote synthesis, inhibit breakdown, and provide energy support."
