This simple five-carbon compound is different from the sugars that we are familiar with. D ribose is recognized by the body as good sugar. It is reserved for making energy molecules that power the heart, muscles, brains and other tissues in the body. It is actually beneficial for those who have suffered a heart attack. They are also helpful for people who have fibromyalgia and those suffering for chronic fatigue.

D ribose can be found in some supplements that are taken for weight loss and appetite suppression. It is beneficial to weight loss because it can help shorten recovery time between workouts thus, allowing those on a weight loss program to work out more often and more effectively. While d ribose appears to be beneficial to most people, special precautions apply to pregnant and breast-feeding women. As it tends to lower blood sugar, it is contra-indicated in diabetics. Those who are scheduled for surgery are advised against taking it as it might interfere with blood sugar control.