Anyone who suffers from fibromyalgia is well aware of the devastating impact this syndrome can have on his life, his ability to function and his overall well-being. Certain treatments can improve symptoms; however, there is no know cure for fibromyalgia. Dietary supplements like d-ribose can also help with symptom management. Talk to your doctor before using any dietary supplements.
D-Ribose
D-ribose is a type of simple sugar that plays a role in energy metabolism and specifically in the formation of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, the main component of energy transfer. In fact, the ATP energy molecule is made of ribose. Ribose is found in limited amounts in meat and vegetables, though your body usually manufactures enough ribose from glucose to meet its daily needs. In her book, "Food That Helps Win the Battle Against Fibromyalgia," naturopathic doctor Deirdre Rawlings states that d-ribose supplements can help fibromyalgia by improving energy transfer to your muscles.
Fibromyalgia and Fatigue
Fatigue and persistent, widespread pain are the defining features of fibromyalgia. Other symptoms include sleep disorders, gastrointestinal problems and headaches. You may experience chronic feelings of low energy and feel like you don't have enough motivation or stamina to get out of bed in the morning. The exact cause of fibromyalgia isn't yet understood. However, researchers believe that people with fibromyalgia may have a deficit in ATP production, which accounts for the lack of energy and feelings of fatigue. Using d-ribose may help increase energy levels and improve feelings of well-being.
Clinical Evidence
Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of d-ribose on energy levels and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. A case study published in the November 2004 issue of the "Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy" found that a woman suffering from fibromyalgia experienced a decrease in symptoms when treated with ribose. The researchers postulate that the benefits may be attributed to ribose's role in the synthesis of ATP. Another study, published in the November 2006 issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" evaluated the effects of d-ribose supplementation on study participants suffering from either fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, disorders whose symptoms are closely related. The results found that patients who received the supplementation experienced substantial benefits in clinical symptoms, including improved energy levels, sleep, mental clarity and pain intensity.
Considerations
While it seems that d-ribose supplementation may improve certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, you should not rely on dietary supplements to treat your condition. Consult your doctor if you think you have fibromyalgia. No side effects are associated with the use of ribose supplements, according to Tufts Medical Center; however, no long-term safety studies have been conducted. As with any nutritional supplement, inform your doctor if you plan to use d-ribose.
References
- "Food that Helps Win the Battle Against Fibromyalgia: Ease Everyday Pain and Fight Fatigue"; Deirdre Rawlings, N.D.; 2008
- "Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy"; Benefit of Ribose in a Patient with Fibromyalgia; B. Gebhart and J. Jorgenson; November 2004
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; The Use of D-Ribose in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Study; J. Teitelbaum, et al.; November 2006
- Tufts Medical Center: Ribose
