BHB Ketone Supplementation: Fueling Mental and Physical Endurance
Health-conscious consumers are surging. They are looking for trending products that are well-validated and Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is one of those. Finally stretching beyond its roots with the ketogenic diet, BHB is a clean energy that takes wellness to another level. From enhancing physical performance to improving brain function, BHB’s versatility makes it a compelling option for brands that want to stand out. Let’s take a closer look at what BHB offers consumers and the supplement industry.
What is BHB?
Beta-hydroxybutyrate is a ketone body produced naturally by the liver during periods of low glucose availability, such as fasting or adherence to a ketogenic diet. It serves as a vital energy source, specifically for the brain, muscles, and other tissues during times of metabolic stress. BHB is one of three ketone bodies synthesized in the liver and it is the most abundant ketone in the bloodstream during ketosis. By taking BHB supplementation, this exogenous ketone source can help facilitate and maintain ketosis, even in the presence of higher carbohydrate intake. This can be beneficial for athletes, and people looking to enhance cognitive function and overall wellness.
What are the Benefits of BHB?
Cognitive Function
BHB has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and serve as a potent energy source for the brain (1). By supplementing with an alternative fuel substrate to glucose, BHB can support cognitive function, mental clarity, and focus, particularly during times of increased demand or cognitive stress. Older adults, gamers, working professionals, and students all have the potential to benefit from BHB and the brain support it offers.
Physical Endurance and Recovery
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have increasingly turned to BHB supplementation as a means to optimize their physical performance and support post-workout recovery. By providing a readily available energy source for muscles, BHB supplements have the potential to delay the onset of fatigue and enhance endurance during prolonged exercise sessions (2).
Weight Management
Research suggests that BHB can play a role in appetite regulation by influencing hunger hormones and satiety signaling. By promoting feelings of fullness and reducing cravings, BHB supplementation could support weight management efforts (3), whether following a low-carbohydrate diet or not.
Metabolic Health
BHB has been implicated in various metabolic processes, including glucose regulation, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial function. Emerging evidence suggests that BHB supplementation may have potential therapeutic applications in managing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases (4).
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Ketosis, induced either through dietary means or exogenous BHB supplementation, has been associated with reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in the body (4). By modulating inflammatory pathways and increasing antioxidant defenses, BHB may contribute to overall health and longevity.
Recent BHB Products
The versatility of BHB opens the door to a wide range of supplement possibilities.
Take a look at formulas we’ve recently completed that contain BHB:
BHB Nootropic Beverage
Nootropic beverage that enhances focus, concentration, and energy
BHB Pre-Workout Drink Mix
Pre-workout mix that aids in fat loss while improving lean muscle composition.
BHB Hydration Stick Packs
Electrolyte stick packs to stay hydrated and stave off muscle fatigue during activities.
BHB Post-Workout Recovery
Post-workout recovery with complimentary ingredients like BCAA's and L-Glutamine.
Neutral BHB Salts Powder
We have successfully neutralized the unpleasant taste of BHB salts, allowing them to be added to virtually anything without negatively impacting the flavor.
Build with BHB
Beta-hydroxybutyrate supplementation offers a promising avenue for enhancing both mental and physical performance, with a range of wellness benefits. With ongoing research and product innovation, the market for BHB-containing products is set for continued growth.
At Factory6, BHB is a great example of an ingredient we enjoy working with that is disrupting the supplement industry for the better. With 27 patents and fascinating clinical studies, we exclusively use Ketone Labs, who are the IP owners of almost everything BHB-related. Check them out to learn more about this energy powerhouse, and if you’re ready to make BHB ketones pop, our team is waiting to help.
