According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, as many as 5 million Americans over the age of 18 are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Of those, 80 to 90 percent are women. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and treatment can be difficult and sometimes ineffective. Numerous research studies are looking into the causes and possible treatments for fibromyalgia and a few have found a connection to D-ribose, which is a natural sugar found in your body. Before beginning any new treatment or supplementation, please consult with your physician.
D-Ribose
According to the Cory Holly Institute, D-ribose is a five-carbon, naturally occurring sugar that can be found in all living cells of the body. It is synthesized from glucose. It is a constituent of riboflavin, or vitamin B2, and helps the cells in your body use oxygen. It is essential in the formation of deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid, DNA and RNA. When it comes to a potential role in fibromyalgia, one of the most essential roles of D-ribose is its role in the formation of adenosine triphosphate, which is the main energy source, ATP, behind muscle contraction.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes muscle pain and fatigue and is characterized by what are called "tender points." These tender points can be found on the shoulders, neck, hips, back, arms and legs and will cause pain when pressure is administered. Other symptoms can include sleep disturbances, painful menstrual periods and a condition known as "brain fog" or "fibro fog," which affects memory and train of thought. If you suffer from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you are at a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia as well.
Medical Research
Numerous research studies have looked at the connection between D-ribose and fibromyalgia and the results have shown promise. A 2006 study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" looked at the supplementation of D-ribose. The researchers looked at 41 patients that had been diagnosed with either fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome and administered five grams of D-ribose supplement three times a day. According to the results, 66 percent of the patients showed significant improvement in energy, sleep patterns, mental clarity, decreased pain intensity and general well-being. The average increase in energy was 45 percent.
Considerations
As with any supplement, do not start without first consulting with your physician. Because D-ribose is a naturally occurring sugar in the cells it is generally safe. According to The Cory Holly Institute, D-ribose comes in purified white powder and capsules. They state that up to 60 grams may be taken a day without complications, but the standard dose is 20 grams distributed throughout the day. Before adding D-ribose, consult with your physician or a physician specializing in alternative medicine for a dosage that would be appropriate for you.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases; Fibromyalgia; July 2009
- The Cory Holly Institute; Ribose: Heart, Muscle and Energy Food
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; The Use of D-Ribose in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia; JE Teitelbaum et al.; November 2006
