Background

• Ribose has many important roles in physiology. Ribose and its related compound deoxyribose are the building blocks of the nucleic acids ribonucleic acid (RNA) and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), respectively. Ribose phosphates are used by microorganisms to make the amino acid histidine, one of the 22 amino acids commonly found in animal proteins. Ribose is the sugar that begins the metabolic process for production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the major source of energy used by cells.
• Use of ribose by athletes and bodybuilders is based on the theory that ribose supplies muscle cells with a continuous supply of ATP. It is also sometimes combined with creatine, another substance that helps keep the muscles supplied with ATP, in formulations marketed to professional bodybuilders. While there is an abundance of anecdotal evidence from bodybuilders and other athletes concerning the positive effects of ribose, clinical research in this area suggests that ribose may not have effects on exercise performance.
• Research has shown that ribose may help speed recovery of the heart muscle after a heart attack and improve blood flow to the heart in those affected by inadequate oxygen. Ribose supplementation has been used to support heart function and rejuvenate heart tissue after both heart attacks and heart surgery. Research has also shown that ribose may improve symptoms associated with fibromyalgia (muscle and connective tissue pain). However, research is preliminary, and firm conclusions cannot be drawn at this time.

References

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