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Are you just starting to workout or are you a fitness buff ? Do you want to try a new supplement to help at increasing your results in size and strength ? There are many performance enhancing supplements on the market. Here we cover the effects of HMB  on size and strength in the gym. This is for both the general and athletic population.

The majority of supplements are for vitamins and minerals, fat loss, or muscle enhancement supplements. One  is called HMB. This makes up part of an amino acid. When these amino acids are put together they make complete proteins.

What Is HMB ?

HMB is short for hydroxy-methyl-butyrate. This is a metabolite that is part of the amino acid leucine. Out of all the amino acids, leucine has the highest anabolic characteristics. The supplement is thought to possible have an effect on mediating the anabolic effects of the amino acid (1). It also comes in more than one form. One of these is calcium based, and the other free-form. The free-form which is now used is more effective in decreasing recovery time, inflammation, and increasing the level of hormones. (7). The main effect of hmb is that it decreases the severity of muscle breakdown during a workout. This leads to a faster recovery time. Even though this does not seem anabolic, it is indirectly related to the anabolic effect of muscle protein breakdown. This meaning a faster recovery time due to a smaller catabolic breakdown of the muscle.

How can it effect your workouts and performance ?

If you are just starting your workouts, you must first adapt to training prior to any results with size or strength. When you have no experience with resistance training, your body must adjust to specific movement patterns. This allows the communication between the nerves and muscles to adapt to training. This will take at least a few weeks. When you become adjusted, you will begin to see changes in strength and size. Here is an example of how HMB may work at assisting with an increase of the size and strength of the muscle.

Two people do an identical workout concern the volume and intensity of resistance training. The intensity would be measured through repetition maximums. The same schedule is followed for each person concerning days of workouts.

No supplementation:

All workouts cause damage or micro tears to the muscle. As the phase of the workout continues, volume and intensity will increase which will lead to an increase in strength.

Using HMB:

This person takes HMB before a workout. Due to its effects on decreasing muscle damage seen, a faster recovery time is the result. A faster rate of recovery time means a greater increase in strength. It may not only effect overall strength, but allow a higher volume of training as well.

HMB has been show to increase the size and over strength levels of the athletic population (2), and some aerobic aspects of training. In one study a group of experienced rowers were looked at for twelve weeks. Variables measured included vo2 max or total oxygen consumption and venilatory threshold which is the time it takes to reach your vo2 max. A higher total amount of oxygen used, along with a greater amount of time used to reach this point shows hmb as having a positive effect on your anaerobic and aerobic capacity. (4) There have been few studies on its effects for the general population. This includes both active and experienced, and inactive population. 

How does it effect the general population ?

 HMB has been shown to positively effect strength, size,  and athletic performance, but its effect on the general population should also be looked at. HMB is generally thought to effect activities not requiring oxygen. Could it effect aerobic fitness as well.?

In one study, people experienced in fitness were looked at. This test looked at a peak oxygen test otherwise known as vo2 max. This is the maximum amount of oxygen needed for a specific amount of work in a given time period. The subjects' venilatory threshold or point at which you have maxed out and need to recover was also looked at.  A control group, and a group taking hmb were used. High intensity interval training was used as well. This is a combination of short term bursts of activity, followed by lower intensity activity. Results showed a greater effect on the variables measured in the supplement group. This means that less oxygen was needed to perform the same amount of work in a given period. The total time able to perform was also increased. This shows an improvement in both aerobic and anaerobic endurance. (3)

Can it assist in reducing muscle wasting ? 

Other factors such as general and functional strength with the inexperienced individual have been looked at, showing an increase in general strength assessed (5). The effects of the supplement on sarcopenia or muscle wasting is also something to look at (6). The chances of even having sarcopenia or a decrease in its rate can even be reduced. This is due to a history of activity both with resistance training and aerobic training. Therefore, the possibility of developing sarcopenia is less if you have a history of resistance training. (8)

In one study, strength and muscle breakdown was looked at with sedentary people. Three groups were looked at. One taking whey protein, another using hmb and one where they were taken together. No difference in either of the three groups concerning damage to the muscle was seen. I would question these results though. This is because the subjects were untrained and isometric strength instead of dynamic strength was used. From the results of test, along with personal testimonials, hmb is a natural supplement that will help with your performance both on the field and in the gym. 

Overall, hmb has a very positive effect on performance both in the athletic population, and the trained for the general population. Regardless of your experience level in the gym, HMB will assist you in size and strength gains. Also, if put with another supplement like creatine will give you a even better chance at reaching your fitness goals such as increasing size and strength. 

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=(((((%22The%20Journal%20of%20physiology%22%5BJournal%5D)%20AND%20(%222013%2F06%22%5BDate%20-%20Publication%5D%20%3A%20%223000%22%5BDate%20-%20Publication%5D)))%20AND%20591%5BVolume%5D))%20AND%20(Effects%20of%20leucine%5BTitle%5D%20AND%20its%20metabolite%20B-hydroxy-b-methylbutrate%20on%20human%20skeletal%20muscle%20protein%20metabolism%5BTitle%5D)#

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24599749#

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=(High%20intensity%20interval%20training%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D%20AND%20b-hydroxy-b-methylbutyric%20free%20acid%20improves%20aerobic%20power%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D%20AND%20metabolic%20thresholds%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D)#

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=((%222015%22%5BDate%20-%20Publication%5D%20%3A%20%223000%22%5BDate%20-%20Publication%5D))%20AND%20(The%20efficacy%20of%20a%20b-hydroxy-b-methylbutyrate%20supplementation%20on%20physical%20capacity%2C%20body%20composition%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D%20AND%20biochemical%20markers%20in%20elite%20rowers%3A%20a%20randomised%2C%20double-blind%2C%20placebo-controlled%20crossover%20study%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D)#

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=(Effects%20of%20free%20leucine%20supplementation%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D%20AND%20resistance%20training%20on%20muscle%20strength%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D%20AND%20functional%20status%20in%20older%20adults%3A%20a%20randomized%20controlled%20trial%5BTitle%2FAbstract%5D)#

6.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=(Leucine%20partially%20protects%20muscle%20mass%5BTitle%5D%20AND%20function%20during%20bed%20rest%20in%20middle-aged%20adults%5BTitle%5D)#

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29207472#

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=((Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate%20supplementation%5BTitle%5D%20AND%20skeletal%20muscle%20in%20healthy%5BTitle%5D%20AND%20muscle-wasting%20conditions%5BTitle%5D))%20AND%20(%22Journal%20of%20cachexia%2C%20sarcopenia%20and%20muscle%22%5BJournal%5D)#

There are so many nutritional supplements on the market now that it is hard to know where to start. This goes for anything from weight loss, to gaining lean mass and strength.

One product that is helpful especially with the business of everyday life is meal replacement powders. These come in the form of either protein, or protein mixed with carbohydrates. Here we will discuss what the best meal replacement powder may be for you.

Although there are many brands of meal replacement powders, they are all made differently. Some are made from a soy based product, while others are whey based proteins, eggs, casein, and even beef protein. Here we will cover some whey protein drinks so that you can better decide which one you may like the most and will fit your health and fitness needs. Here are some different sources of protein and good meal replacement powder:

Whey Protein:

This type of protein is extracted from milk and is in the majority of powders that you find on the market today. This type of protein is best for anyone looking to gain lean mass or even lose weight. It is probably the best type of protein to use right after a workout due to its rate of absorbsion. This will ensure your muscles getting the protein needed after a hard workout. Whey protein also has more complete proteins when compared to other forms.

One major disadvantage is that since it is made from milk protein, you shouldn't take it if you are lactose intolerant. Also, if you are looking to maintain or lose weight, you should stay with a product that has more protein and very few carbohydrates. The products with carbohydrates are meant more for weight gain and are better used for post workout drinks.

Casein Protein

This protein is taken from liquid milk, where the proteins are separated from the fats and carbohydrates. One major difference in casein when compared to other proteins is that it has a slower absorbsion rate. This may be better used prior to very low activity, or even prior to going to bed. This will ensure that your body gets calories throughout the night.

Due to the fact that casein protein is milk based, you should not take it if you are lactose intolerant. Also, as mentioned before, it is best taken prior to low activity or even sleep due to the slow absorption rate. This means that it is not a good source to take post workout, where your body needs a fast absorbsion rate.

 Beef:

You wouldn't think that a protein in powder form could come from beef, but there actually is such a thing. One positive aspect of this protein source is that it naturally contains creatine. Creatine is used as a supplement for workouts due to it assisting in strength and endurance while doing resistance training.

Although these positive aspects do exist, I would arrow on the side of caution since this protein type has not been researched a lot.

Soy:

Soy protein comes from the soy plant.  This type of protein is good for those that are vegetarians and want to stay away from any animal products. It is also fairly inexpensive.

One thing you should consider when thinking of taking soy as a source of protein is its relationship with estrogen levels and the effects that it could have.

Egg

Eggs are a great source of protein in one's diet. Before protein powders even existed, it was normal for anyone that was hard into working out to use raw eggs as a source of protein. Egg based protein powders also have vitamins as well which makes them a good choice.

The only things that should be considered when looking at using egg proteins are any allergic reactions you may have, along with the fact that most egg based proteins are more expensive than other sources.

The majority of the best protein powders that you see promoted on the market are whey based protein. The other sources mentioned such as the eggs, soy, casein, and beef are used, but whey and casein which are associated with milk are probably the two best-selling types of protein powder on the market.

I personally have used mainly whey based protein powders. Some of these brands are better than others. Here are some few that I have tried and the satisfaction or dissatisfaction that I got from them.

Optimum Nutrition Weight Gainer

This weight gainer whey based protein is great if your looking at putting on a few pounds and are seriously working out and lifting weights. It works great when your muscles need protein to recover from a long and hard workout. There are numerous flavors offered such as vanilla, banana, cookies and cream, as well as peanut butter. My personal favorite is vanilla even though it is a plain flavor.

One positive that I give this brand of protein is that when you mix it in a shaker using a wisk, it is a very smooth texture without any clumps, and it has a very good taste as well. The only reason to not use this is if you are not looking at gaining weight, but just want protein. This company makes strait protein powder without the carbohydrates as well. Also, I would not use this product if I didn't have a shaker and had to mix it by hand, since it may not totally mix up as it should. 

When looking at this product, it also comes either in large bags, or bottles. If you are looking at every day use, I advise to use the bagged version. Also, although the product is meant for weight gain, I don't go by the instruction's concerning the serving size. This is actually not good to consume the amount that they advise since it is a tremendous amount of carbohydrates at once. Changing the serving size will allow it to last longer, and probably give you a better result. I would use a normal smaller scoop and measure it in comparison to the large scoops that it comes with in order to know the amount of calories I was consuming.

In order to get the most out of the product for the best price, I suggest cutting the serving size into 1/3 or what is instructed. This will still give you a substantial amount of calories when added to milk, and it will last closer to a month. The intent of the company is to have you consume more calories than you really need which will only help in gaining fat, not muscle. Here is a general comparison to the instruction's given, and what I suggest.

Size 12 lb bag

Price $ 48.00

Normal Serving size                        Suggested Serving size

Calories 1,250/serving                       1/3 or 420 calories/serving (add milk for more)

$ 3.00/serving                                      $1.00/serving

Servings 16                                          48

Carbs 250 grams                                  85 grams

Protein 50 grams                                  16 grams (no milk)

2x/ day = 60 servings/month.                 60 servings/month

(4 bags) $ 192/month                           ( 2 bags) $ 95/month

Score: A -

EAS Myoplex

This protein powder is whey based protein meal replacement powder. It comes either in single packets, or in a tub. The packets are nice to use since they are easy to take with you if you are out or going to the gym to workout. If you use any powder from a tub or container, you have to use a plastic bag which may not hold up as well. This protein also comes in various flavors including chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. All of these flavors are good. EAS which stands for experimental and applied sciences is also a well-known brand that stands behind their product. There is also either a weight gainer, or more of a protein powder in general. Due to the price, I suggest using this once/day possibly prior to bed. Because of a lack of carbohydrates, it would not make a good post workout product.

Size 20 servings

Price $ 50

Normal serving size  1 pouch

Calories 290

Servings (20/package)

Cost/serving $ 2.50

Carbs 22 grams

Protein 42 grams

Score: A

Muscle Milk Gainer

This protein is high in carbohydrates and is casein based. It is meant to assist in weight gain. Although this is the case, you can still decrease the serving size to lessen the number of calories if you only want to maintain your weight. This product is good since it has a good ratio of carbohydrates to protein. Also, it can be mixed with either milk or water. 

The only negative thing that I have to say about this brand is that the consistency of the drink is not good. Regardless of how hard you shake it, the texture is not smooth but clumpy. It is better if you mix it with milk but even then that doesn't make a big difference. Also, when mixed, it makes almost a foamy texture which makes it hard to drink. 

Some good things are that it is casein based which makes it good for periods of low activity. Overall though, I would not recommend this product if your looking at the taste. If this is not an issue though, the product has good ingredients and works. Also, since it is casein based, it may be better to take it prior to going to bed, especially since it has fewer carbohydrates.

Size: 5 pounds

Price: $32

Normal serving size: 4 scoops               Suggested serving size: 2 scoops

Calories 650                                           325

Servings 14                                            28 (1 month if taken once/day)

Price/serving $ 2.28                               $ 1.14

Carbs 109 grams                                     55 grams

Protein 54 grams                                     27 grams (add milk for more protein)

Score: C

These are only some many protein powders and weight gainers on the market. The one that best fits you will depend on your personal goals whether it is weight gain, maintaining weight, or weight loss. Using a low carbohydrate high protein drink is advised if you want to lose weight, since it is best to consume carbohydrates only prior to your busiest part of the day. Protein only meal replacement powders are best right before bed, or when activity level is low.

You should search around to find which brand and protein base would be best for you whether it be casein, whey, soy, egg or beef based. These products mentioned I have used personally and I hope that it gives you a basic understanding of each product and what may be best for you.

Butter has been used to add flavor to foods since the beginning of time. Because at one point it was discovered that it may be bad for our health, other "healthier" options were made. One of these is margarine, which is basically the same as butter, only not made naturally. Having the choice of using butter or margarine, it  can be confusing which to use. So which is better, butter or margarine ?

Butter 

Butter is basically the cream that is found in whole milk, whipped into the consistency of butter. The byproduct of this is buttermilk. The buttermilk can then be used for other purposes, just so it is taken out of the butter as much as possible. Butter can come in different forms depending on how the animal was fed. The two main ways of feeding are through grains or being grass fed. Studies show that consuming butter that is made from grass fed cows is healthier than butter made from grain fed cows.

When you hear the word butter, you think of just plain butter, but there are also many recipes that can be used to give butter a different taste. This includes:

Pear butter:

Feta butter: Made from goats milk

Honey butter:

Lemon butter

Pecan-brown sugar

These are only some different types of butter that can be made. You can also make coconut butter from the dry portion of a coconut.

Margarine:

This is very similar to butter and is said to be "healthier" than natural butter, but is this really true ? Butter contains saturated fats, which are said to be unhealthy and can lead to heart disease. The term saturated only means that the fat that is in butter has been totally saturated with hydrogen ions. This is why butter should be used sparingly.

Because margarine is made from other fats that are unsaturated such as oils, it is thought to be better for you. These oils are mainly what are known as polyunsaturated. Although the oils used to make margarine are unsaturated, they have to be put through a process called hydrogenation before they can be made into butter. This process adds hydrogen ions to the chemistry of the margarine and makes it no different from regular butter. It is actually thought that these fats, which are known as trans fats, are even more unhealthy for you than the saturated fats found in natural butter.

Types of fats

Saturated:

Saturated fats get this name because they are saturated with hydrogen ions Butter is normally at least fifty percent saturated fat. This increases low density lipo proteins which is the bad type of cholesterol. This can lead to possible heart disease. Although it is not known, it is said that in order to counter act this, your body decreases the amount of cholesterol that it produces. Your body produces cholesterol itself, therefore, no cholesterol is needed in ones' diet.

Trans Fat:

These fats are transferred from saturated to unsaturated fats, which make the unsaturated fats saturated. This is done through the hydrogenation process. These can be found in things such as margarine or shortening. They are made through hydrogenation so that they can stay at room temperature and last longer.

 Unsaturated fats

Mono unsaturated:

These unsaturated fats have one open space that is not taken up by hydrogen. Good sources of this type of fat are avocado, some nuts, as well as fish.

Poly unsaturated

These unsaturated fats have at least three or more spaces not used by hydrogen. They consist of a carbon ion, and numerous double bonds. Sources of these fats are peanut oil, corn oil, olive oil, or sunflower oil.

 Fatty Acids

There are also different types of fatty acids, all of which have a positive benefit on your health, but they must be consumed in balance in order to work properly. These include omega 3, omega 6, and omega 9 fatty acids. Here is a general overview of each of these fats and their benefits as well as sources. It is even thought that consumption of these healthy fats at a young age can help in decreasing the chances of developing heart conditions later in life. (4)

Omega 3 fatty acids

You hear a lot about different fatty acids and how they are healthy for you, specifically omega 3 fatty acids. They are said to help with brain function, depression, anxiety, heart health, and other health issues. This is a type of poly unsaturated fat which you can not make. These fatty acids can be found mainly in different types of fish. These include mackerel, salmon, cod liver oil, herring, oysters, as well as many other fish.

Omega 6 fatty acids

Omega 6 fatty acids, just like omega 3 is essential to your diet since they can not be made by the body. These fats are used mainly for energy. You only need so many omega 6 fatty acids, because consuming too many can lead to things such as inflammation. Some good sources of omega 6 fatty acids include : soybean oil, corn oil, mayonnaise, walnuts, as well as other sources.

Omega 9 fatty acids

These fatty acids are important for your health because they are said to reduce the amount of your bad cholesterol levels. They can be found in mono unsaturated fats. They will also help in decreasing inflammation. Good sources include: almonds, cashews, walnuts, peanut oil, and other good sources of fats.

These previous fats are all healthy for you and are essential for your health. You should have a small amount of each daily in order to maintain good health. Omega 6 fats are normally consumed enough, so you should focus more on omega 3, and 9 fatty acids.

Butter and heart disease: Saturated fat

As stated before, due to the saturated fat in butter, this is thought to increase your chances of having a heart attack, or developing heart disease if it is consumed too much. Just how unhealthy is it though ? There actually may be some positive effects of saturated fat as well. Fatty acids can affect the heart indirectly as well through their affect on insulin within the body (1). Concerning saturated fat and heart disease, it has even been shown that going only two weeks on a diet high in saturated fat can increase ones' bad cholesterol and risk of heart disease even if they have been on a healthy diet (2). In one study, it was even shown that a diet high in saturated fat may help in decreasing the chances of an ischemic stroke occurring (3), although this may be due to numerous factors within the study and more studies may need to be done. You should still error on the side of caution concerning the amount of saturated fat you consume, using it sparingly.

Margarine and heart disease: Trans fat

Although trans fat's are not thought of as healthy, they do have a positive impact on the effects of saturated fat on the body. In one study, it was shown that trans fats actually decreased stress responses that were initiated by saturated fats (5). Although this is true, it has also been shown that trans fats can have an affect on inflammation and oxidation stress, which can affect the progression of heart disease.(6) The fact that trans fats can affect your chances of developing heart disease has been well-known for quite some time, and it may even be more of a risk factor at developing heart disease than saturated fats (7). In one study, data from 83,000 subjects looked at data taken over a period of 10 years. Subjects had no previous cardiovascular health issues. After ten years, subjects were followed up. Adjustments were made for age and energy intake. It was concluded that the association of trans fats and cardiovascular disease was higher for the subjects that consumed margarine which contained trans fatty acids. Intake of foods such as margarine, cookies, cake, and other processed foods were positively associated with a higher risk for cardiovascular heart disease (8). Therefore, you should make sure your intake of processed foods with trans fats is moderate to low.

In conclusion, both saturated and trans fats should be used sparingly. Both of these fats are found in butter and margerine. So which is better, butter or margerine ? From studies that were found, if I had to choose, butter would be my first choice since it is a natural substance. All natural foods are healthier than processed foods. All foods that we eat have some form of fat in them, whether it is trans fat, saturated fat, or unsaturated fat.

Both trans fats, and saturated fats should be used sparingly. Although these fats do have their place, because the body produces these naturally, they are not needed in the diet. Other unsaturated fats and fatty acids have very positive health benefits and are needed in the diet due to the fact that the body can not produce some. In order to maintain proper health, a balance of healthy fats must be maintained, along with moderate use of trans fats, and saturated fats.

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6083561/#

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6021040/#

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5945551/#

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5998369/#

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5952403/#

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5856295/#

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1431574#

8. Lancet. 1993 Mar 6;341(8845):581-5.

There are numerous ways to lose body fat, but also ways to test your body composition concerning fat and overall body weight. Although you have to account for other factors such as your bones and organs, body composition testing gives a very accurate measure of your body fat.

There are numerous ways to test your level of body fat. Many of these involve another individual having to do the testing. There are other ways as well. Whats the easiest way to measure body fat you may ask.  Here we will discuss using what is called bioelectircal impedance to measure your body composition. Although it is not the most accurate way of testing, it is the easiest way to measure body fat.

What is bio electrical impedance ?

Bioelectrical impedance is a form of body composition testing where a very small electrical current is run through the body in order to measure the conduction of electricity within the body. This allows you to get a general reading of your body composition. In order for the test to be accurate, you must first make sure that you are properly hydrated both with water and electrolytes.

If your body does not have the electrolytes needed, the reading will be very inaccurate. This system of testing works through the fact that lean muscle tissue is a much better conductor of electricity than fat. This is due to the difference in density. With fat being much denser than muscle, the electricity is not able to pass through the tissue as easily.

This is where hydration comes in as being important since your muscle is made of 85% water. This is probably the easiest way to measure body fat. In order to get an accurate reading, you must first put in general information such as your height and weight.

Devices used

There are two different devices that are used to conduct a bio electrical impedance test. This includes either a scale which you stand on, or a hand held device. Obviously the hand held device is much more convenient since it can be carried with you, while a scale can be used only at home.

If you only want to test yourself periodically, a scale may be your best choice, but if you want to do this on more of a set schedule, I would advise to use the handheld device. Bioelectrical impedance machines are made in many brands and models. It just depends on whether you want only general information, or more specifics. Depending on your needs, you may have to pay more. Here are just some bio electrical body composition machines that are produced.

Tanita

Tanita is the first company that came out with the original body fat analyzer scale in 1994. The technology that is used is bar none when compared to other manufactures. Tanita devices measure both intracellular, extra cellular, and total body water. They also do this with using up to six different frequencies which makes the measurement more accurate.

Ironman

The Tanita ironman body composition scale is great for anyone that is into fitness and wants to keep track of their fitness goals. This would be best suited for anyone that has a lifestyle of working out and staying in shape. It measures weight, body fat, muscle mass, body mass index, bone mass, and even basel metabolic rate. It can also track up to four people.

Omron

These body composition monitors will allow you to keep track of your overall level of fitness and help you in reaching your fitness goals.

HBF-306-c

This body fat monitor is hand held which makes it very portable. It uses metal strips on the sides of the handles similar to those that measure your heart rate on a cardio machine. This is great for anyone that normally goes to the gym for a workout, or out for a run. It even comes with a thirty-day money back guarantee.

HBF-514-c

This body fat monitor is unique in the sense that it uses sensors for both arms and legs, while most scale based monitors only send signals through the legs, this monitor has a hand held device built in, increasing the accuracy. Its very simple to use, and can store data for up to four people. It measures body weight, age, resting metabolism, body fat, as well as lean mass.

Weight guru digital

If you want to go high tech, this may be the product for you. The weight guru digital scale is compatible with blue tooth, WiFi, apple health, fit bit, as well as other applications. You're able to send information straight to your phone. It allows you to track your weight, body mass index, body fat, muscle mass, and even water weight. It even comes with a 5 year warranty. The weight guru digital is challenging to set up, but when it is functioning properly, its easy to use.

Fit bit aria Wi-Fi smart scale

This is another WiFi scale that will work with your fit bit device. It accurately measures your weight, body composition, as well as body mass index. Your able to upload the information to your fit bit each time you step on the scale. It has enough memory for up to eight people. It has been reported though for there to be an inaccurate measurement of body fat percentage, so I may question this.

Eat Smart Precision

This scale has all the basic functions that you need in order to measure your level of health. It measures your body fat %, muscle mass, bone mass, weight, and percentage of water. It does have a weight limit of 400 lbs, and it measures in either pounds or kilograms. There is also enough memory to store information for up to eight people.

Withings WS 50 Wi-Fi

This scale gives very accurate weight and body mass index measurements. It also allows you to track your progression on your smart phone. To use this scale, you must have an android or an apple device in order to set it up. It is even able to detect the specific person on the scale, and uses multiple web services as well. I would only error on caution because it has been said to be somewhat inaccurate when it comes to body composition.

There are so many digital body composition scales that it is difficult to choose the correct one for you. If I was looking for a basic scale to measure body fat, the omron HBF 514-c is a great choice since it measures using both arms and legs. Depending on how much you want to spend, the simplest scale that connects to your computer is probably the Guru digital. The hand held device is also convenient if you want to take it with you for a workout.

Overall, each of these scales are good, it just depends on your goals and how often you want to keep track of them that may determine which is best for you.