Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

D-ribose (sometimes referred to as ribose or GMS-ribose, with GMS standing for glycosylated monosaccharide), is a naturally occurring pentose sugar that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells. Scientific studies have explored D-ribose supplementation for its potential to support energy production, particularly in conditions characterized by impaired cellular energy metabolism.

Several small clinical trials and pilot studies have investigated D-ribose in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, and certain cardiac conditions. For instance, a 2006 pilot study (Teitelbaum et al.) found that D-ribose supplementation improved subjective measures of energy, sleep, and well-being in patients with CFS and fibromyalgia. Other research has shown that D-ribose may help accelerate ATP replenishment in heart and skeletal muscle following ischemia or intense exercise, though these findings are largely limited to animal models or small human trials.

Despite these promising results, the overall body of evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, lack of large-scale randomized controlled trials, and reliance on subjective reporting. There is a plausible biochemical rationale for D-ribose supplementation to support energy production, but more robust clinical evidence is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for general use in treating fatigue or low energy.

In summary, while D-ribose has a scientific basis and some preliminary clinical support for its use in supporting energy, current evidence is moderate at best (3/5), and further research is warranted.

More about GMS-ribose
More about Energy (lack of)

Other ingredients used for Energy (lack of)

Other health conditions supported by GMS-ribose

Products containing GMS-ribose