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HMB is short for beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate. Small amounts are found in certain foods such as catfish and alfalfa. Although HMB supplements have only become popular since the mid 1990's, the role of HMB in cholesterol metabolism has been studied for several decades. Scientists in the 1950's discovered that HMB (then known as 3-hydroxyisovaleric acid) plays a role in the synthesis of cholesterol.Your muscles are in a constant state of change. New proteins are being made, while old ones are broken down, or degraded. Skin goes through the same process. Old skin dies off, and your body synthesizes new skin to take its place. When you train with weights, you stimulate protein synthesis. However, protein breakdown is also increased. HMB supplements are supposed to limit the amount of protein breakdown that takes place following exercise. This, in turn, should lead to greater muscle growth.
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