Once limited to the world of bodybuilding, nutritional supplements are gaining traction in a completely different field: neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research suggests that HMB, which is widely used to promote muscle recovery, may have unexpected effects on the brain, particularly slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
US researchers have revealed that this compound may reduce the buildup of toxic proteins in the brain and support memory function. Although the results are preliminary, they offer a glimmer of hope to the millions of people around the world living with dementia.
Sports supplements attracting scientific attention
Beta-hydroxybeta-methylbutyrate (HMB) has long been a staple in the sports world. Known for its muscle-preserving properties, it is often taken by bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts to aid recovery and performance. However, its potential role in protecting cognitive function is a relatively new and unexpected measure.
According to a survey conducted by rush university and Cimarron InstituteHMB may help preserve areas of the brain associated with memory and learning. This discovery was made through experiments on mice exhibiting the following symptoms: alzheimer’s diseaseSymptoms like ~. This study cell reportshowed that HMB reduces the accumulation of amyloid plaques that are a hallmark of this disease. These deposits, which are usually associated with declines in memory and cognitive function, were visibly reduced in HMB-treated mice.
Lead author Dr. Kalipada Pahan emphasized the importance of the results, saying that this approach:It may be one of the safest and easiest ways” Ways that can help slow the progression of the disease. futura sciencehighlighting the low-risk profile of the supplement, which is already considered safe for long-term use in humans in terms of muscle development.
How HMB acts on the brain
The therapeutic interest of HMB lies in its dual actions. First, it increases the production of neurotrophic factors, proteins that ensure proper neuron function, but their amounts are usually lower in Alzheimer’s patients. Second, it targets physical markers of disease. According to the same study, the supplement led to a reduction in both amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, twisted fibers that are also a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Pahan explained that when administered orally, the supplement reaches the brain and directly stimulates the production of beneficial proteins. These proteins play an important role in restoring the subject’s neural connections and improving both learning and memory abilities.
Another interesting mechanism involves the interaction of HMB with PPARα, a receptor involved in fatty acid metabolism in the brain. This interaction, as outlined by the researchers, may be one of the underlying processes explaining the observed neuroprotective effects. This aspect of supplement action further increases scientific interest and strengthens the basis for future human trials.
Cautions and next steps in research
Although the study’s results are promising, the researchers cautioned against drawing premature conclusions. The positive effects of HMB have so far only been observed in animal models, and significant research remains before these results can be translated into human therapy. The path from laboratory research to clinical application is long and complex and requires extensive validation.
Still, the fact that HMB is already widely used and considered safe gives it a head start. Its accessibility and existing approvals for other uses may simplify the regulatory steps needed to test its effects on cognitive impairment. Future studies will aim to better understand the mechanism and determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment that may be used in patients, the research team said.