A method of administering beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyric acid (HMB) is described, and specifically administering HMB-acid to a person such that the administration of free acid HMB results in an increase in effectiveness of HMB over administration of free acid HMB results in an increase in effectiveness of HMB over administration of other forms of HMB, including a calcium salt HMB composition is described. Administration of HMB-acid results in an increase in the peak level of HMB in plasma compared with administration of a similar dose of a calcium salt HMB composition. Administration of HMB-acid results in a faster time to reach peak plasma levels of HMB relative to administration of a similar dosage of a calcium salt HMB composition.
