Supports Normal Heart FunctionA significant amount of in vitro, animal and human research suggests benefits of ribose on heart function. Studies have shown that ribose supplementation can enhance cardiac energy levels and support cardiovascular metabolism. Ribose has been shown in clinical trials to enhance the recovery of heart muscle ATP levels and improve myocardial function following exercise.Studies suggest that ribose supplementation can increase the tolerability of the cardiovascular system to exercise-induced fatigue. In one study, twenty men underwent treadmill exercise tests on two consecutive days to confirm the onset of fatigue secondary to exercise. The participants were then randomized to the treatment group or a placebo group. The groups received either four doses of 15 grams of D-ribose (60 grams/day total) or the same amount of placebo each day. After three days of treatment, another treadmill test was performed. The time it took to reach the specified level of fatigue was significantly greater in the ribose group than in the placebo group.Another study investigated the ability of ribose to support healthy heart function and quality of life. In a randomized, crossover design study, fifteen individuals were given 5 grams three times a day of either D-ribose or placebo. Each treatment period lasted three weeks. In patients receiving ribose, echocardiography demonstrated enhancement of heart function, reflecting a more efficient relaxation phase of the heart. Participants also had a significant improvement in their subjective quality of life scores compared to placebo.