Researchers in the Health and Human Performance Department at Iowa State University studied the effect of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains.  The purpose of this study was to quantify which dietary supplements augment lean mass and strength gains during resistance training. Peer-reviewed studies between the years 1967 and 2001 were included in the analysis if they met a predetermined set of experimental criteria, among which were at least 3-wk duration and resistance-training 2 or more times a week.  Of the 250 supplements examined, only 6 had more than 2 studies that met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Creatine and HMB were found to significantly increase net lean mass gains of 0.36 and 0.28%/wk and strength gains of 1.09 and 1.40%/wk, respectively. In conclusion, two supplements, creatine and HMB, have data supporting their use to augment lean mass and strength gains with resistance training.  Next time you are evaluating your supplement regimen, consider the results from this 2001 study – you may save a few pennies and add a few pounds.  Article was published in the Journal of Applied Physiology.