A new study offers hope for older adults struggling to maintain muscle strength. Researchers found that daily supplementation with calcium HMB (β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate) and vitamin D3 significantly improved muscle function and lean body mass in adults over 60—even in those who didn’t exercise.
The 12-month double-blind study included 117 participants with low vitamin D levels. Those taking HMB+D without exercising gained lean muscle, improved knee extension strength, and showed consistent improvements in a composite functional index measuring grip strength and mobility. These benefits were not seen in the placebo group and were most pronounced in non-exercisers.
While exercise remains a cornerstone of healthy aging, this study highlights the potential of HMB and vitamin D3 to support muscle health in older adults who are unable—or unlikely—to follow regular training programs.
Source: https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/75/11/2089/5898559?login=false
