The Effect of Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methyl Butyrate in Response to Exercise and High-Fat Diet on Body Weight, Body Composition and Characteristics of Metabolic Syndrome in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the effect of HMB on body weight and body composition and characteristics of metabolic syndrome. Methods: Newly weaned Wistar rats (n=36) received a regular diet for 4 weeks. Thereafter, rats were allocated to three groups (n=12/group).  All groups received a high-fat diet for 8 weeks. Group one received HMB (320mg/kg BW /d) and an exercise regimen; group two received HMB with no exercise and group three received a placebo with no exercise (control group). Bodyweight (BW), body composition, systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, pulse rate, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and blood glucose (BG) response to a glucose load were measured.   Results: BW and food intake were not affected by either HMB supplement or exercise. Body fat was lower in HMB and HMB + exercise compared with the control group at week 12. The glucose response to glucose preload was lower in HMB and HMB + exercise groups compared with control at week 12. No effect of either HMB or exercise on systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse was observed.     Conclusion: The results of this study support the beneficial effects of HMB supplements on body composition and glucose metabolism. However, the HMB supplement did not have any additional effect when combined with an exercise regimen.