D-ribose is a critically important sugar molecule

D-ribose is part of your DNA—the genetic material that contains information for all the proteins produced in your body—and also makes up part of your cells’primary energy source, adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Here are some emerging benefits of D-ribose supplements.

1. May Help Recovery of Energy Stores in Your Cells

D-ribose is a component of the structure of ATP, the main energy source for your cells.

For this reason, research has examined whether ATP supplements can help improve energy stores in muscle cells.

One study had participants complete an intense exercise program consisting of 15 all-out cycling sprints twice per day for one week.

After the program, participants took approximately 17 grams of D-ribose or a placebo three times per day for three days.

Researchers assessed ATP levels in the muscle over these three days and then performed an exercise test consisting of cycling sprints.

The study found that after three days of supplementing, ATP was recovered to normal levels in the D-ribose group, but not in those taking the placebo.

However, during the exercise test, there was no difference in performance between the D-ribose and placebo groups.

As a result, the significance of the improved ATP recovery with D-ribose supplements is not entirely clear.

2.May Improve Heart Function in People With Heart Disease

Evidence suggests that D-ribose may improve energy production in heart muscle, as it’s essential for ATP production.

Several studies have examined whether D-ribose supplements improve heart function in people with heart disease.

One study found that 60 grams per day of D-ribose improved the heart’s ability to tolerate low blood flow during exercise in people with coronary artery disease.

Another study found that 15 grams daily of the supplement enhanced the function of some of the chambers of the heart and improved quality of life in those with the same disease.

Overall, studies demonstrate the potential of D-ribose for improving heart metabolism and function in people with heart disease.

3.May Benefit Exercise Performance

Due to its important role in ATP, your cells’ source of energy, D-ribose has been examined as a supplement to improve exercise performance.

Some research supports the possible benefits of D-ribose in relation to exercise and energy production in those with specific diseases.

Other research has demonstrated possible performance-enhancing benefits in healthy individuals but only in those with low fitness levels.

Researchers particularly saw enhanced power output and lower perceived exertion during exercise when participants with lower fitness levels took 10 grams per day of D-ribose compared to a placebo.

Despite these findings, the majority of research in healthy populations has not shown improvements in performance.

One study even showed that the group that consumed D-ribose showed less improvement than the group that consumed a different type of sugar (dextrose) as the placebo treatment.

Overall, the performance-enhancing effects of D-ribose are likely only seen in certain disease states and possibly those with low fitness levels.

For healthy, active individuals, evidence to support this supplement’s ability to improve exercise performance is weak.