Abbott on May 29 launched Ensure Gold milk powder with added nutrition including HMB, vitamins and minerals to support muscle health.

HMB is a metabolite of essential amino acid leucine. It promotes muscle building, together with protein, and helps the body regain strength.

Small quantities of it are found in some foods and in the human body, but levels decline with age. It is difficult to get enough HMB from food alone.

Dr Luu Ngan Tam, president of the Clinical Nutrition Association of HCM City, said most people are not aware that from their 40s adults can naturally lose up to 8 per cent of muscle every decade, and after 70 the rate almost doubles to 15 per cent.

Research has shown that 10 per cent muscle loss could lead to impaired immunity and increased risk of infection while a 20 per cent decrease can cause weakness, thinning of the skin, and decreased healing capabilities, she said.

Douglas Kuo, general manager of Abbott Vietnam, said: “Ageing is inevitable and causes loss of strength. Maintaining your muscles now is important as they impact your overall health, well-being and quality of life.”

The new product is designed for people from all walks of life, especially those at risk of malnutrition and patients recovering from illness.

Resistance exercises and appropriate nutritional intake by supplementing diet with nutrients that are good for muscles are vital in maintaining and recovering muscle health, especially during physical illness and for those experiencing muscle loss due to ageing, Tam said. — VNS