Performance

HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)

Also known as: Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate, HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate), HMB-Ca, HMB-FA

Evidence

Leucine metabolite that may reduce muscle protein breakdown. Most useful during caloric restriction or for beginners.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

Add NOW Foods HMB to your stack — free

The highest-scored HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) product in our catalog (92/100). Track dose and overlaps in the app.

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Every HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) product we have scored

#	Product	Score	Per serving
1	NOW Foods HMB	92 A	$0.44
2	NOW Foods Sports Tablets, HMB With Vitamin D-3, 1,000 mg	91 A	$0.38
3	Double Wood HMB Supplement	77 B+	$0.33

Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.

Common questions

How much HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) should I take?

The typical range is 3 g daily in divided doses. Safe long-term

When should I take HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)?

Before/after workouts and with meals. Optional.

Which form of HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) is best?

HMB-FA (free acid) — Faster absorption. Other forms in the catalog: HMB-Ca (calcium salt).

Is HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) safe?

Commonly reported: Well tolerated. Serious warnings: None. Safe

Which HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) supplement scores highest?

NOW Foods HMB, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.

Primary uses

Muscle preservation
Recovery
Strength (beginners)

How it works

Reduces muscle protein breakdown
May increase protein synthesis
Metabolite of leucine

Dosage

Typical range: 3 g daily in divided doses
Timing: Before/after workouts and with meals
With food: Optional
Duration: Safe long-term
Special populations: Cutting phase, beginners, elderly

Forms

HMB-FA (free acid)
HMB-Ca (calcium salt)

Safety

Common side effects

Well tolerated

Contraindications

None

Products containing HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

NOW Foods

HMB

Find on Amazon

NOW Foods

Sports Tablets, HMB With Vitamin D-3, 1,000 mg

Double Wood

Evidence notes

Helps prevent muscle loss

Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.

HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) compared head-to-head

Muscle Growth & Retention
HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate) vs Creatine

Related in Performance

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.