D-ribose is found within the body’s RNA, and also in different types of foods such as proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, and fungi; it is an important component of ATP which supplies energy to cells. ATP is important to cellular metabolism, ensuring that cellular functions run smoothly, particularly in maintaining cardiovascular function. When there is a shortage of ATP which can occur as a result of cell damage, infection, or inflammation, organ health and body functions can become compromised.
Insufficient levels of ATP can affect cardiac function and increase the risk of chronic coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure according to lead author Heyder Omran. A shortage of oxygen caused by low levels of ATP has been shown to impair cardiac function and blood circulation in animal studies, these complications can prove to be fatal over time.
D-ribose has been shown to help renew depleted levels of ATP and strengthen the heart by stimulating cardiac function, additionally a study published in the International Journal of Cardiology revealed supplementation with D-ribose can help to improve exercise capacity of those with congestive heart failure. Based on these findings D-ribose may help to improve life threatening symptoms of CHF and chronic coronary artery disease.
This study was a randomized double blind study designed to determine the effects of oral supplementation with D-ribose on cardiac function. 15 adult participants with congestive heart failure and chronic coronary disease received two treatment periods spanning 3 weeks each with a one week washout period between them, in which participants received either a placebo or the oral dose of D-ribose.
Findings showed that D-ribose helped to provide beneficial effects to those with chronic coronary disease and congestive heart failure by improving cardiac function, quality of life and exercise capacity. The team hopes their findings will help in developing treatments for those who are at risk using D-ribose.
