Supplement
HMG (3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaric Acid)
SaveAn organic acid intermediate in leucine metabolism, upstream of HMB. Sometimes marketed for muscle-building, but with far less evidence than HMB itself.
Quick verdict
Very limited human evidence. It is a precursor in the same leucine metabolic pathway as HMB, but direct supplementation data is nearly absent.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
HMG is an intermediate metabolite between alpha-ketoisocaproate (KIC) and HMB in leucine catabolism. Theoretical rationale for supplementation exists based on the HMB pathway, but dedicated human trials on HMG supplementation are essentially nonexistent.
Benefits
- Theoretical metabolic precursor to HMB
- Part of the leucine catabolic pathway
Dosage notes
No established dose. HMB (3 g/day) is the better-studied downstream metabolite.
Side effects
- Unknown due to lack of human trials
- GI discomfort possible
Who should be cautious
Very limited safety data. Should not be confused with HMG-CoA (a different molecule relevant to cholesterol synthesis).
What this page cannot tell you
Almost no direct clinical evidence. Supplementing HMB directly is far better supported. Marketing claims substantially outpace the science.
Leaderboard scores
- Muscle15
- Recovery12
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