Showing posts with label corvalen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label corvalen. Show all posts
Friday, February 25, 2011
Corvalen & CorvalenM New Product Label
We recently learned that Bioenergy is no longer selling these products directly to patients and have given up control of the distribution of these products to Douglas Laboratories. They have new packaging but this is still the same product as before when under Bioenergy. Corvalen Ribose and CorvalenM can still be purchased through health care practitioners or on the internet.
Monday, March 9, 2009
What is the difference between CORvalen and CorvalenM?
What is the difference between CORvalen and CorvalenM? Both products recommend 5 grams per serving, and both have the same number of servings of D-ribose the principal active ingredient. In addition, CorvalenM contains magnesium and malate, both shown to improve muscle metabolism and relaxation.
How do I know which is best for me? As a general rule, CORvalen is recommended for heart patients and athletic applications. CorvalenM is used more for muscle aches, pain, soreness, and stiffness. But there are many exceptions with each. Ask yourself, Does my diet need additional magnesium? Magnesium is important for over 200 chemical reactions in the body. Some say the American diet contains less and less natural magnesium because more of our food is processed and we drink more bottled water and beverages than a couple of generations ago.
Conversely, too much magnesium leads to loose stools and diarrhea. You can pick up magnesium from several sources vitamin pills and other supplements.
What are the ingredients for each product? CORvalen is 100% D-ribose. Each serving contains 5g of D-ribose. CORvalen M contains D-ribose, malate and magnesium. For each serving of CORvalen M, there is 5g D-ribose, 240mg Malate (or malic acid) and 800mg magnesium gluconate (the same as 40mg elemental magnesium). CORvalen Chewable Wafers each contain 1.67 grams D-ribose. Other ingredients include inulin, cocoa bean powder, mannitol, modified cellulose, safflower oil, coconut powder, stearic acid, silicon dioxide and natural flavors.
What is ribose? D-Ribose is a simple, 5-carbon monosaccharide, or pentose sugar. It is used by all the cells of the body and is an essential compound in energy metabolism. Ribose is also the carbohydrate backbone of genetic material, DNA and RNA, certain vitamins and other important cellular compounds.
Who needs CORvalen? Ribose is an essential ingredient in stimulating natural energy production. Research has shown that ribose promotes cardiovascular health, reduces cardiac stress associated with strenuous activity and helps athletes extend their exercise tolerance and accelerates recovery. Ribose helps hearts and muscles maximize energy recovery. Whether you are a trained athlete, a weekend warrior or are concerned about your cardiovascular health, ribose may help give the energy boost your body needs.
How is ribose made in the body? Most compounds necessary for life are made in the body through a series of complicated pathways. Ribose is no different. In the body, ribose is made from glucose (a simple 6-carbon sugar) through a pathway called the Pentose Phosphate Pathway (PPP). Eventually, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is produced. ATP is the primary energy molecule in your body’s cells. Though your body makes ribose and ATP naturally, it produces it slowly. As a result, your heart and muscle tissues use their energy faster than they can restore it and the energy pools become depleted.
How does the body derive cellular energy from ribose? The physiologically functional form of ribose, called 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), regulates the metabolic pathway that synthesizes energy compounds in all living tissue. If this compound is not available in sufficient quantity, energy synthesis slows.
How does taking supplemental CORvalen aid in increasing cellular energy? If the cellular energy pool is depleted by disease or exercise, it must be replaced. PRPP is required to turn on the metabolic pathway used by the body to replenish these energy pools. Supplemental ribose bypasses the slow and rate-limiting enzymes in the Pentose Phosphate Pathway, forms PRPP, and quickly begins the process of energy synthesis.
What will CORvalen do for someone concerned about cardiovascular health? Numerous medical studies have shown that energy levels in the heart can be dramatically lowered by exercise or decreased blood flow associated with certain cardiac diseases. Depleted cardiac energy pools may be associated with increased cardiac stress, altered cardiac function, fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance. Ribose is the key nutrient for quickly restoring cardiac energy stores.
What is the recommended daily dosage of CORvalen? Usual dosage: 5g serving twice daily, taken with meals. A third serving may be added with a midday meal as needed.
Alternative dosage: 5g just before and just after exercise or physical activity.
Serving measurement: 5g of CORvalen powder is a rounded teaspoonful. A single dose measuring scoop is provided with each jar.
CORvalen may be dissolved in 2 oz. or more of juice, tea, or coffee or sprinkled over foods of choice (such as hot oatmeal, yogurt, cold cereal). CorvalenM has a more citrus flavor so it is best in juice, water or yogurt. CORvalen and CorvalenM should NOT be mixed into carbonated beverages.
To maximize athletic performance, or to keep energy pools high during strenuous activity, slightly larger doses may be required. CORvalen (D-ribose) should be taken just before and just after exercise or activity. For extended exercise, an additional 1 to 2 grams per hour of exercise or activity may be helpful.
When can I expect to feel results/benefits from taking CORvalen? Individual response varies widely, but relief from fatigue is often felt within the first 10 days of consistent use.
What can I mix with CORvalen? CORvalen may be mixed with water, juice, coffee, tea or sprinkled on cereal or fruit. It has a mild pleasant sweet taste and is very flexible.
Are there any side effects associated with taking ribose? CORvalen may lower blood sugar for 60 to 90 minutes after ingestion. This may cause one to feel very hungry or lightheaded. This can be avoided by taking with meals or with some form of a carbohydrate such as a juice.
What will ribose do for someone who exercises on a regular basis? Scientific research shows that three or four workouts per week may not allow enough rest time between sessions for heart and muscle energy pools to return to normal levels. Taking CORvalen (D-ribose) shortens the time needed by heart and muscle tissue to replace energy that is lost through vigorous exercise. Keeping energy pools full helps to keep hearts and muscles in good physiological condition, increase power and endurance, and reduce fatigue. Recent research has also shown that ribose supplementation during exercise manages free radical formation and lowers cardiac stress associated with hypoxia.
Does CORvalen conflict with any medications? There are no known interactions with drugs or other supplements.
Does ribose work with creatine or other supplements? Ribose can increase the effect of creatine and other energy supplements by keeping the energy pool at full capacity. Creatine works by recycling energy that is already present in the tissue. Another supplement, carnitine, aids in fatty acid metabolism. A third, pyruvate, also helps to recycle energy. Only ribose performs this important metabolic function. Without adequate levels of energy to work with, no other supplement can be fully effective.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
How do I know which is best for me? As a general rule, CORvalen is recommended for heart patients and athletic applications. CorvalenM is used more for muscle aches, pain, soreness, and stiffness. But there are many exceptions with each. Ask yourself, Does my diet need additional magnesium? Magnesium is important for over 200 chemical reactions in the body. Some say the American diet contains less and less natural magnesium because more of our food is processed and we drink more bottled water and beverages than a couple of generations ago.
Conversely, too much magnesium leads to loose stools and diarrhea. You can pick up magnesium from several sources vitamin pills and other supplements.
What are the ingredients for each product? CORvalen is 100% D-ribose. Each serving contains 5g of D-ribose. CORvalen M contains D-ribose, malate and magnesium. For each serving of CORvalen M, there is 5g D-ribose, 240mg Malate (or malic acid) and 800mg magnesium gluconate (the same as 40mg elemental magnesium). CORvalen Chewable Wafers each contain 1.67 grams D-ribose. Other ingredients include inulin, cocoa bean powder, mannitol, modified cellulose, safflower oil, coconut powder, stearic acid, silicon dioxide and natural flavors.
What is ribose? D-Ribose is a simple, 5-carbon monosaccharide, or pentose sugar. It is used by all the cells of the body and is an essential compound in energy metabolism. Ribose is also the carbohydrate backbone of genetic material, DNA and RNA, certain vitamins and other important cellular compounds.
Who needs CORvalen? Ribose is an essential ingredient in stimulating natural energy production. Research has shown that ribose promotes cardiovascular health, reduces cardiac stress associated with strenuous activity and helps athletes extend their exercise tolerance and accelerates recovery. Ribose helps hearts and muscles maximize energy recovery. Whether you are a trained athlete, a weekend warrior or are concerned about your cardiovascular health, ribose may help give the energy boost your body needs.
How is ribose made in the body? Most compounds necessary for life are made in the body through a series of complicated pathways. Ribose is no different. In the body, ribose is made from glucose (a simple 6-carbon sugar) through a pathway called the Pentose Phosphate Pathway (PPP). Eventually, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is produced. ATP is the primary energy molecule in your body’s cells. Though your body makes ribose and ATP naturally, it produces it slowly. As a result, your heart and muscle tissues use their energy faster than they can restore it and the energy pools become depleted.
How does the body derive cellular energy from ribose? The physiologically functional form of ribose, called 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), regulates the metabolic pathway that synthesizes energy compounds in all living tissue. If this compound is not available in sufficient quantity, energy synthesis slows.
How does taking supplemental CORvalen aid in increasing cellular energy? If the cellular energy pool is depleted by disease or exercise, it must be replaced. PRPP is required to turn on the metabolic pathway used by the body to replenish these energy pools. Supplemental ribose bypasses the slow and rate-limiting enzymes in the Pentose Phosphate Pathway, forms PRPP, and quickly begins the process of energy synthesis.
What will CORvalen do for someone concerned about cardiovascular health? Numerous medical studies have shown that energy levels in the heart can be dramatically lowered by exercise or decreased blood flow associated with certain cardiac diseases. Depleted cardiac energy pools may be associated with increased cardiac stress, altered cardiac function, fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance. Ribose is the key nutrient for quickly restoring cardiac energy stores.
What is the recommended daily dosage of CORvalen? Usual dosage: 5g serving twice daily, taken with meals. A third serving may be added with a midday meal as needed.
Alternative dosage: 5g just before and just after exercise or physical activity.
Serving measurement: 5g of CORvalen powder is a rounded teaspoonful. A single dose measuring scoop is provided with each jar.
CORvalen may be dissolved in 2 oz. or more of juice, tea, or coffee or sprinkled over foods of choice (such as hot oatmeal, yogurt, cold cereal). CorvalenM has a more citrus flavor so it is best in juice, water or yogurt. CORvalen and CorvalenM should NOT be mixed into carbonated beverages.
To maximize athletic performance, or to keep energy pools high during strenuous activity, slightly larger doses may be required. CORvalen (D-ribose) should be taken just before and just after exercise or activity. For extended exercise, an additional 1 to 2 grams per hour of exercise or activity may be helpful.
When can I expect to feel results/benefits from taking CORvalen? Individual response varies widely, but relief from fatigue is often felt within the first 10 days of consistent use.
What can I mix with CORvalen? CORvalen may be mixed with water, juice, coffee, tea or sprinkled on cereal or fruit. It has a mild pleasant sweet taste and is very flexible.
Are there any side effects associated with taking ribose? CORvalen may lower blood sugar for 60 to 90 minutes after ingestion. This may cause one to feel very hungry or lightheaded. This can be avoided by taking with meals or with some form of a carbohydrate such as a juice.
What will ribose do for someone who exercises on a regular basis? Scientific research shows that three or four workouts per week may not allow enough rest time between sessions for heart and muscle energy pools to return to normal levels. Taking CORvalen (D-ribose) shortens the time needed by heart and muscle tissue to replace energy that is lost through vigorous exercise. Keeping energy pools full helps to keep hearts and muscles in good physiological condition, increase power and endurance, and reduce fatigue. Recent research has also shown that ribose supplementation during exercise manages free radical formation and lowers cardiac stress associated with hypoxia.
Does CORvalen conflict with any medications? There are no known interactions with drugs or other supplements.
Does ribose work with creatine or other supplements? Ribose can increase the effect of creatine and other energy supplements by keeping the energy pool at full capacity. Creatine works by recycling energy that is already present in the tissue. Another supplement, carnitine, aids in fatty acid metabolism. A third, pyruvate, also helps to recycle energy. Only ribose performs this important metabolic function. Without adequate levels of energy to work with, no other supplement can be fully effective.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
The Use of D-Ribose in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Buy CorvalenM, Corvalen D-Ribose Lowest/Best Price
THE JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
Volume 12, Number 9, 2006, pp. 857–862, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
The Use of D-Ribose in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Study
JACOB E. TEITELBAUM, M.D.,1 CLARENCE JOHNSON, M.S.,2 and JOHN ST. CYR, M.D., Ph.D.2
ABSTRACT
Objectives: Fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are debilitating syndromes that are often associated with impaired cellular energy metabolism. As D-ribose has been shown to increase cellular energy synthesis in heart and skeletal muscle, this open-label uncontrolled pilot study was done to evaluate if D-ribose could improve symptoms in fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome patients.
Design: Forty-one (41) patients with a diagnosis of FMS and/or CFS were given D-ribose, a naturally occurring pentose carbohydrate, at a dose of 5 g t.i.d. for a total of 280 g. All patients completed questionnaires containing discrete visual analog scales and a global assessment pre– and post–D-ribose administration.
Results: D-ribose, which was well-tolerated, resulted in a significant improvement in all five visual analog scale (VAS) categories: energy; sleep; mental clarity; pain intensity; and well-being, as well as an improvement in patients’ global assessment. Approximately 66% of patients experienced significant improvement while on D-ribose, with an average increase in energy on the VAS of 45% and an average improvement in overall well-being of 30% (p 0.0001).
Conclusions: D-ribose significantly reduced clinical symptoms in patients suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. 857
INTRODUCTION
Fibromyalgia (FMS), which currently affects an estimated 3 to 6 million Americans,1,2 and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are disabling syndromes that often coexist. Patients suffering with these syndromes commonly report severe persistent fatigue, diffuse migratory pain, cognitive dysfunction, and disordered sleep. Many of the clinical symptoms found in FMS/CFS may be related to a decrease in tissue energy levels with altered energy metabolism. Previous reports claim that abnormal muscular energy metabolism frequently can be reflected in pain because of chronic muscle shortening,3 postexertional fatigue, and low exercise tolerance associated with decreased cardiac output and stroke volumes.4 In addition, it has been postulated that decreased energy production in these syndromes also may result in hypothalamic dysfunction, which can be reflected clinically as disordered sleep, hormonal imbalances, and autonomic dysfunctions.5 Causes and mechanisms for this mitochondrial dysfunction are unknown; however, an alteration in muscle adenine nucleotide
metabolism is found, mainly in lower adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and depleted energy reserves.6,7
D-Ribose, a naturally occurring pentose carbohydrate, is a key structural component in the DNA, RNA, ATP, FADH, coenzyme-A, and NADH needed by the mitochondria to maintain cellular energy homeostasis. Supplemental doses of D-ribose in patients with congestive heart failure and ischemic heart disease have shown a significant improvement in diastolic dysfunction, physical function, exercise tolerance, and quality of life.8 D-Ribose has also been reported to be effective in restoring tissue energy levels following intense exercise9 and in an isolated case report of a patient with FMS.10 Because of the known energy and functional 1Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers, Dallas, TX. 2Valen Labs, Minneapolis, MN. benefits of D-ribose, an open-label uncontrolled pilot study was performed to assess whether D-ribose would decrease symptoms in patients suffering from FMS and CFS.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Patient enrollment
Forty-one (41) adult patients, diagnosed by their physicians as having FMS (by ACR Criteria) and/or CFS (by CDC criteria), were found eligible for this study. In addition, patients also had to be without known severe medication or nutrient sensitivities, and not have taken D-ribose in the past. Recruitment of patients was through the FMS and CFS e-mail newsletter associated with the Annapolis Research Center and the www.Vitality101.com web site. Readers with an established diagnosis of FMS or CFS were informed about the nature of the study and were invited to participate if they satisfied the entrance criteria. All patients were thoroughly
informed about D-ribose, its potential benefits, and possible adverse side-effects and gave informed consent. The protocol is consistent with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Except for a free container of D-ribose, patients received no compensation.
Design of study
A 280-g container of D-ribose (CORvalen, Valen Labs, Minneapolis, MN) and a questionnaire (outcome measures) were mailed to each subject once the patient was enrolled. Each patient was instructed to take one scoop (5-g) of D-ribose three times per day (t.i.d.) mixed with food, water, or another beverage until the container was empty and then to return the container and questionnaires in a prepaid envelope. They were instructed to stay on their current treatment
regimen and not change dosing or add or delete any treatments during the study.
Outcome measures
Subjective outcome measures were assessed using discrete Visual Analog Scale questions (DVAS) pre- and postintervention. Measured DVAS parameters were energy levels,
sleep disturbances, mental clarity, pain, and an overall sense of well-being. Patients were asked to individually rate each of these five areas on a 1 to 10 scale as shown below:
A. How is your energy?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 near dead and 10 excellent
B. How is your sleep?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 no sleep and 10 8 hours of sleep a night without waking
C. How is your mental clarity?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 brain dead and 10 good clarity
D. How bad is your pain?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 very severe pain and 10 pain free
E. How is your overall sense of well-being?
1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 near dead and 10 excellent
Compliance was addressed in each patient by asking how many doses were missed and noting how long it took to finish the 280-g container, as well as by weighing the received container at the completion of the study. Each patient was asked if any adverse side effects occurred while on D-ribose. Finally, each patient commented on his or her overall subjective feeling while taking D-ribose: much better, somewhat better, no change, somewhat worse, or much worse.
RESULTS
Of the 41 patients enrolled in the study, five patients were considered noncompliant; therefore, they were excluded from the study and final analysis. Noncompliance was defined as having consumed half or less of the provided D-ribose during the study. Of the 36 remaining patients, the average age was 48 years, 78% were female. Patients had been ill with CFS/FMS for an average of 7.15 years. Further demographics are summarized in Table 1. The average length
of time on D-ribose was 25 days (range, 17 to 35 days). Subjectively, significant improvements were found in energy levels (p 0.0001), sleep patterns (p 0.0001), mental clarity (p 0.003), pain threshold (p 0.026), and the patient’s state of well-being (p 0.0001) when comparing
questionnaires at enrollment and at the completion of the study in all of the patients (Table 2). Table 3 denotes the pre- and postribose assessments in patient categories for each separate syndrome. At the completion of the study, patients also felt a positive subjective improvement while taking D-ribose (Table 4). Twenty-three (23) of the 35 patients (65.7%) completing
the assessment experienced improvement during the course of the study (somewhat better to much better) while taking D-ribose. The responses were compared to the null 858 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
TABLE 1. PATIENT DEMOGRAPHICS
Patient demographics
Sex Female: 28 (78%)
Average age 48 years (21–62)
Previous diagnosis: FMS 75%
Previous diagnosis: CFS 58%
Average duration CORvalen therapya 28 days (17–35)
FMS, fibromyalgia; CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome.
aValen Labs, Minneapolis, MN. response of “No Change” in a one-sample nonparametric
sign test and signed rank test. Both tests resulted in statistical
significance (p 0.0001).
The following subgroup analyses were also performed: gender, age, CFS, and FMS. Gender was at least a marginally significant predictor of measured outcomes: energy levels (p 0.02), sleep patterns (p 0.001), mental clarity (p 0.002), pain threshold (p 0.06), state of well-being
(p 0.03), and total score (p 0.001). Age was not associated with any of the outcome parameters: energy levels (p 0.80), sleep patterns (p 0.32), mental clarity (p 0.97), pain threshold (p 0.50), a state of well-being (p 0.45), and total score (p 0.58). A prior diagnosis of CFS was not associated with any of the outcomes: energy levels (p 0.59), sleep patterns (p 0.28), mental clarity (p 0.33), pain threshold (p 0.39), state of well-being (p 0.39), and total score (p 0.27). Likewise, a prior diagnosis of FMS was not associated with any of the measured outcomes: energy levels (p 0.58), sleep patterns (p 0.29), mental clarity (p 0.20), pain threshold (p 0.43), state of well-being (p 0.33), and total score (p 0.24). Of the five patients that were found to be noncompliant,
three stopped taking D-ribose because of a hyperanxious feeling (one patient), lightheadedness (one patient), and increased appetite (one patient). Two others changed their mind and simply did not begin the study. Of the remaining 36 patients who completed the study, one patient experienced transient nausea and another felt mild anxiety. Both of these reactions were reversed by simply lowering the dose of D-ribose.
DISCUSSION
Fibromyalgia and CFS are common, nonarticular, debilitating syndromes that affect approximately 2%–4% of the population worldwide. Patients with FMS and/or CFS generally
demonstrate reduced sustained exercise capacity, with lack of muscular contractile force and endurance.11,12 Similar conditions are frequently associated with abnormal metabolism. Therefore, many FMS and/or CFS studies have investigated potential alterations in muscle metabolism. 6,13,14–19
D-RIBOSE FOR CFS AND FMS 859
TABLE 2. PRE- AND POSTRIBOSE ASSESSMENTS: ALL PATIENTS
Pre Post Difference
Category N mean (std) mean (std) (95% CI) p-Value
Energy level 36 3.8 (1.1) 5.5 (1.5) 1.7 0.0001
(1.1, 2.2)
Sleep 36 4.8 (1.6) 6.0 (1.9) 1.2 0.0001
(0.6, 1.7)
Mental clarity 36 4.9 (1.5) 5.7 (1.7) 0.8 0.003
(0.3, 1.3)
Pain 36 4.9 (2.3) 5.6 (2.2) 0.7 0.026
(0.1, 1.3)
Well-being 36 4.3 (1.3) 5.6 (1.5) 1.3 0.0001
(0.8, 1.9)
CI, confidence interval.
TABLE 3. PRE- AND POSTRIBOSE ASSESSMENTS PER DIAGNOSIS
FMS CFS Both FMS/CFS
(N 15) (N 9) (N 12)
Pre mean Post mean Improvement Pre mean Post mean Improvement Pre mean Post mean Improvement
Category (std) (std) (%) (std) (std) (%) (std) (std) (%)
Energy 3.7 5.5 1.8 4.2 6.1 1.9 3.7 4.9 1.2
(1.0) (1.5) (48%) (1.4) (1.5) (45%) (1.2) (1.4) (32%)
Sleep 4.4 5.9 1.5 5.6 7.2 1.6 4.8 5.2 0.4
(1.2) (1.6) (34%) (1.7) (1.7) (29%) (1.9) (2.2) (8%)
Mental clarity (14..07) (15..87) (211.%0 ) (25..02) (16..76) (217.%4 ) (15..71) (15..31) 0
Pain (24..35) (25..05) (212.%0 ) (62..73) (71..86) (116.%1 ) (41..16) (41..12) 0
Well-being 4.1 5.7 1.6 4.6 6.3 1.7 4.3 5.0 0.7
(1.0) (1.5) (39%) (1.7) (1.2) (37%) (1.3) (1.5) (16%)
FMS, fibromyalgia; CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy source of all living cells. In tissues subjected to metabolic stress, such as hypoxia, ischemia, or known conditions of mitochondrial dysfunction, ATP is catabolized with compromised metabolic recovery. With ATP catabolism, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) levels accumulate, forcing the cell to try to balance ATP/ADP ratios in order to maintain energy
stasis. However, these reactions ultimately lead to an increased intracellular concentration of adenosine monophosphate (AMP). In an effort to try to control energy balance, the cell catabolizes AMP, ultimately forming inosine, hypoxanthine, and adenine. These catabolic end products are washed out of the cell, resulting in a net loss of purines and an ultimate reduction in the total pool of adenine nucleotides. Potentially, up to 90% of these produced catabolites can be biochemically salvaged and recycled. 9,20,21
The rate of recovery of these energy substrates in metabolically stressed cells is important for functional recovery of the cell, including muscle.20,21–23 Therapeutic solutions that could
try to maintain a cell’s energy stasis include either blocking the degradation of adenine nucleotides or providing metabolic supplementation to enhance nucleotide recovery via the salvage or de novo pathways of purine synthesis. The availability of 5-phosphoribosyl-L-pyrophosphate (PRPP) is rate limiting in adenine nucleotide de novo synthesis and salvage pathways, which is necessary to preserve or rebuild cellular energy stores.9,20,21 5-Phosphoribosyl-Lpyrophasphate is formed through pyrophosphorylation of ribose-
5-phosphate that is, itself, synthesized from glucose via the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP; or hexose monophosphate shunt). The rate-limiting enzymes in the PPP, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, are poorly expressed in heart and muscle cells. As such, in skeletal muscle the PPP is suppressed, limiting ribose availability as a substrate to drive the purine nucleotide pathway and retarding purine nucleotide synthesis
during or following a metabolic insult. The energy reserve, phosphorylation potential (PP), and
the ability to use oxygen (total oxidative capacity or Vmax) have been determined using P-31 MRS in both normal and fibromyalgic muscle.16 Both mean PP and Vmax values are found to be significantly reduced in FMS.16 These findings are consistent with reduced oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis, which translate clinically to muscle fatigue, soreness, and stiffness.24 Impairment in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and potentially diminished glucose metabolism impact ATP turnover, suggesting that the muscles of fibromyalgia patients are energy starved. Further, decreased ATP concentrations with accompanying changes in
energy metabolism have been found in the red blood cells of fibromyalgia patients,25 suggesting that this energy deficiency may be systemic.
Muscular metabolic abnormalities in fibromyalgia have been proposed.6 Dysfunctional metabolism has been shown to lead to cellular abnormalities6 that impact cellular function,
producing clinical symptoms. Muscle biopsies have shown that levels of phosphocreatine (PCr) and ATP are significantly reduced (21% and 17%, respectively) in muscle tissues of fibromyalgia patients and the synthesis of PCr, an important store of cellular high-energy phosphates, is deficient. Magnetic imaging of skeletal muscle has shown that resting levels of ATP are 15% lower in fibromyalgia patients than in normal controls and during exercise PCr and ATP levels remain significantly low.14,16,19 During exercise there is an increase in metabolic breakdown products of ATP (phosphodiesters) in fibromyalgic skeletal muscle groups, indicating abnormal adenine nucleotide metabolism and disruption of cell membranes, which are common in other muscular diseases. There has been speculation that these findings may be similar in patients afflicted with CFS.16 It also has been shown that there are a decreased numbers of capillaries within fibromyalgic muscle fibers, which can reduce the oxidative capacity, leading to limited energy turnover, purine pool depletion, and increased pain.24,26 Thickening of the capillary endothelium also contributes to restricted oxygen transport or delivery, further lowering oxygen tension in the muscle, affecting energy metabolism and contributing to functional fatigue and weakness. In general, the fibromyalgic muscle has lower ATP concentrations than normal muscle. Further, these factors can alter calcium and cellular ion stasis, which, clinically can produce muscle soreness, stiffness, fatigue, and diminished exercise capacity. Patients with FMS and/or CFS may therefore have an alteration in muscular energy use and metabolism. Fibromyalgic muscle reaches anaerobic threshold earlier in exercise, thereby potentially using less available energy-rich phosphate metabolites at maximal work capacity. Patients with FMS may have abnormal high-energy phosphate metabolism with significantly lower levels of ATP and ADP in affected muscles as compared to normal controls.24
The findings in this pilot study, using daily D-ribose, revealed an increased improvement in the quality of life in patients afflicted with FMS/CFS. However, there are several limitations noted in this study. A major limitation centers on a lack of a placebo group. This was, however, meant as
an initial pilot study with each patient acting as their own control. A follow-up RCT is, of course, critical and currently 860 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
TABLE 4. GLOBAL SUBJECTIVE FEELING RATING
Response N (%)
Much better 5 (14.3%)
Somewhat better 17 (48.6%)
Somewhat better/no change 1 (2.9%)
No change 9 (25.7%)
No change/somewhat worse 1 (2.9%)
Somewhat worse 2 (5.7%)
Much worse 0 (0%)
under way using information (and impetus) gained from this pilot study. In addition, as patients were not seen in a clinic, initial assessment of each patient relied on their own personal physician providing an accurate clinical diagnosis of FMS/CFS. This pilot assessment was designed as a clinically focused, community-based study, and this reflects what occurs in most patients’ cases.
Subjective outcome measures were only assessed in this study. The diagnoses and effectiveness of therapies of FMS and CFS are largely based on subjective symptoms. As no accepted diagnostic laboratory tests are available to confirm the diagnoses of and monitor progress in these syndromes, it is reasonable to rely on subjective outcome measurements in this clinical setting. Also, patients did not eliminate other stable treatment modalities they had been on during the study. However, patients were instructed not to make any changes in their treatment regimen during the study. D-Ribose produced a subjective beneficial outcome in these patients;
therefore, the addition of D-ribose may offer an added benefit to their concurrent therapies.
CONCLUSIONS
This pilot study suggests that D-ribose may provide subjective benefits in patients with FMS and/or CFS. Given the biochemical benefits of D-ribose on increasing muscular energy pools and reducing metabolic strain in affected muscles, the use of this supplement may offer a valuable option for improving quality of life in patients afflicted with FMS and/or CFS.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors thank Valen Labs, Inc. (Minneapolis, MN) for providing the oral D-ribose. Dr. Teitelbaum has no financial conflict of interest and his payment for doing the study was donated to charity. Dr. St. Cyr is a consultant for Valen Labs, and Mr. Johnson is on staff at Valen Labs.
REFERENCES
1. Goldenberg DL. Fibromyalgia syndrome—an emerging but controversial condition. JAMA 1987;257:2782–2787.
2. Wolfe F, Ross K, Anderson J, et al. The prevalence and characteristics of fibromyalgia in the general population. Arthritis Rheumatol 1995;38:19–28.
3. Travell JG, Simons DG. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual, vol. 1. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1983.
4. Peckerman A, LaMancha JJ, Dahl KA, et al. Abnormal impedance cardiography predicts symptom severity in chronic fatigue syndrome. Am J Med Sci 2003;26:55–60.
5. Teitelbaum JE, Bird B, Greenfield RM, et al. Effective treatment of CFS and FMS: A randomized, double-blind placebo controlled study. J Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 2001;8:3–24.
6. Bengtson A, Heriksson KG, Larsson J. Reduced high-energy phosphate levels in the painful muscles of patients with primary fibromyalgia. Arthritis Rheumatol 1986;29:817–821.
7. Eisinger J, Plantamura A, Ayavou T. Glycolysis abnormalities in fibromyalgia. J Am Coll Nutr 1994;13:144–148.
8. Omran H, Illien S, MacCarter D, et al. D-Ribose improves diastolic function and quality of life in congestive heart failure patients: A prospective feasibility study. Eur J Heart Failure
2003;5:615–619.
9. Hellsten Y, Skadgauge L, Bangsbo J. Effect of ribose supplementation on resynthesis of adenine nucleotides after intense intermittent training in humans. Am J Physiol 2004;286:
R182–R188.
10. Gebhart B, Jorgenson J. Benefit of ribose in a patient with fibromyalgia. Pharmacotherapy 2004;24:1646–1648.
11. Lund N, Bengtsson A, Thorborg P. Muscle tissue oxygen in primary fibromyalgia. Scan J Rheumatol 1986;15:165–173.
12. Schachter CL, Busch AL, Peloso PM, Shepard MS. Effects of short versus long bouts of aerobic exercise in sedentary women with fibromyalgia: A randomized controlled trial. Phys Ther 2003;83:340–358.
13. Lund E, Kendall SA, Janerot-Sjoberg B, Bengtsson A. Muscle metabolism in fibromyalgia studied by P-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
Scand J Rheumatol 2003;32:138–145.
14. Strobl ES, Krapf M, Suckfull M, et al. Tissue oxygen measurement and 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with muscle tension and fibromyalgia. Rheumatol Int
1997;16:175–180.
15. Krapf MW, Muller S, Mennet P, et al. Recording muscle spasms in the erector spinae using in vivo 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with chronic lumbalgia and generalized tendomyopathies. Z Rheumatol 1992;51:229–237.
16. Park JH, Phothimat P, Oates CT, et al. Use of P-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy to detect metabolic abnormalities in muscles of patients with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Rheumatol
1998;41:406–413.
17. Jacobsen S, Jensen KE, Thomsen C, et al. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy in fibromyalgia. A study of phosphate-31 spectra from skeletal muscles during rest and after exercise. Ugeskr
Laeger 1994;156:6841–6844.
18. Kushmerick MJ. Muscle energy metabolism, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and their potential in the study of fibromyalgia. J Rheumatol 1989;(Suppl 19):40–46.
19. Sprott H, Rzanny R, Reichenbach JR, et al. 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in fibromyalgic muscle. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2000;39:1121–1125.
20. Brault JJ, Terjung RL. Purine salvage to adenine nucleotides in different skeletal muscle fiber types. J Appl Physiol 2001;91:231–238.
21. Tullson PC, Terjung RL. Adenine nucleotide synthesis in exercising and endurance-trained skeletal muscle. Am J Physiol 1991;261:C342–C347.
22. Reibel D, Rovetto M. Myocardial ATP synthesis and mechanical function following oxygen deficiency. Am J Physiol. 1978;234:H620–H624. D-RIBOSE FOR CFS AND FMS 861
23. Williamson DL, Gallagher PM, Goddard MP, Trappe SW. Effects of ribose supplementation on adenine nucleotide concentration in skeletal muscle following high-intensity exercise.
Med Sci Sport Exc 2001;33(5 suppl):5166.
24. Olson NJ, Park JH. Skeletal muscle abnormalities in patients with fibromyalgia. Am J Med Sci 1998;315:351–358.
25. Eisinger J, Bagneres D, Arroyo P, et al. Effects of magnesium, high-energy phosphates, piracetam and thiamin on erythrocyte transketolase. Magnet Res 1994;7:59–61.
26. Bengtsson A, Henriksson KG. The muscle in fibromyalgia—a review of Swedish studies. J Rheumatol Suppl 1989;19:144–149.
Address reprint requests to:
Jacob E. Teitelbaum, M.D.
76-6326 Kaheiau Street
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
E-mail: Endfatigue@aol.com
862 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
THE JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
Volume 12, Number 9, 2006, pp. 857–862, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
The Use of D-Ribose in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Study
JACOB E. TEITELBAUM, M.D.,1 CLARENCE JOHNSON, M.S.,2 and JOHN ST. CYR, M.D., Ph.D.2
ABSTRACT
Objectives: Fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are debilitating syndromes that are often associated with impaired cellular energy metabolism. As D-ribose has been shown to increase cellular energy synthesis in heart and skeletal muscle, this open-label uncontrolled pilot study was done to evaluate if D-ribose could improve symptoms in fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome patients.
Design: Forty-one (41) patients with a diagnosis of FMS and/or CFS were given D-ribose, a naturally occurring pentose carbohydrate, at a dose of 5 g t.i.d. for a total of 280 g. All patients completed questionnaires containing discrete visual analog scales and a global assessment pre– and post–D-ribose administration.
Results: D-ribose, which was well-tolerated, resulted in a significant improvement in all five visual analog scale (VAS) categories: energy; sleep; mental clarity; pain intensity; and well-being, as well as an improvement in patients’ global assessment. Approximately 66% of patients experienced significant improvement while on D-ribose, with an average increase in energy on the VAS of 45% and an average improvement in overall well-being of 30% (p 0.0001).
Conclusions: D-ribose significantly reduced clinical symptoms in patients suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. 857
INTRODUCTION
Fibromyalgia (FMS), which currently affects an estimated 3 to 6 million Americans,1,2 and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are disabling syndromes that often coexist. Patients suffering with these syndromes commonly report severe persistent fatigue, diffuse migratory pain, cognitive dysfunction, and disordered sleep. Many of the clinical symptoms found in FMS/CFS may be related to a decrease in tissue energy levels with altered energy metabolism. Previous reports claim that abnormal muscular energy metabolism frequently can be reflected in pain because of chronic muscle shortening,3 postexertional fatigue, and low exercise tolerance associated with decreased cardiac output and stroke volumes.4 In addition, it has been postulated that decreased energy production in these syndromes also may result in hypothalamic dysfunction, which can be reflected clinically as disordered sleep, hormonal imbalances, and autonomic dysfunctions.5 Causes and mechanisms for this mitochondrial dysfunction are unknown; however, an alteration in muscle adenine nucleotide
metabolism is found, mainly in lower adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and depleted energy reserves.6,7
D-Ribose, a naturally occurring pentose carbohydrate, is a key structural component in the DNA, RNA, ATP, FADH, coenzyme-A, and NADH needed by the mitochondria to maintain cellular energy homeostasis. Supplemental doses of D-ribose in patients with congestive heart failure and ischemic heart disease have shown a significant improvement in diastolic dysfunction, physical function, exercise tolerance, and quality of life.8 D-Ribose has also been reported to be effective in restoring tissue energy levels following intense exercise9 and in an isolated case report of a patient with FMS.10 Because of the known energy and functional 1Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers, Dallas, TX. 2Valen Labs, Minneapolis, MN. benefits of D-ribose, an open-label uncontrolled pilot study was performed to assess whether D-ribose would decrease symptoms in patients suffering from FMS and CFS.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Patient enrollment
Forty-one (41) adult patients, diagnosed by their physicians as having FMS (by ACR Criteria) and/or CFS (by CDC criteria), were found eligible for this study. In addition, patients also had to be without known severe medication or nutrient sensitivities, and not have taken D-ribose in the past. Recruitment of patients was through the FMS and CFS e-mail newsletter associated with the Annapolis Research Center and the www.Vitality101.com web site. Readers with an established diagnosis of FMS or CFS were informed about the nature of the study and were invited to participate if they satisfied the entrance criteria. All patients were thoroughly
informed about D-ribose, its potential benefits, and possible adverse side-effects and gave informed consent. The protocol is consistent with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Except for a free container of D-ribose, patients received no compensation.
Design of study
A 280-g container of D-ribose (CORvalen, Valen Labs, Minneapolis, MN) and a questionnaire (outcome measures) were mailed to each subject once the patient was enrolled. Each patient was instructed to take one scoop (5-g) of D-ribose three times per day (t.i.d.) mixed with food, water, or another beverage until the container was empty and then to return the container and questionnaires in a prepaid envelope. They were instructed to stay on their current treatment
regimen and not change dosing or add or delete any treatments during the study.
Outcome measures
Subjective outcome measures were assessed using discrete Visual Analog Scale questions (DVAS) pre- and postintervention. Measured DVAS parameters were energy levels,
sleep disturbances, mental clarity, pain, and an overall sense of well-being. Patients were asked to individually rate each of these five areas on a 1 to 10 scale as shown below:
A. How is your energy?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 near dead and 10 excellent
B. How is your sleep?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 no sleep and 10 8 hours of sleep a night without waking
C. How is your mental clarity?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 brain dead and 10 good clarity
D. How bad is your pain?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 very severe pain and 10 pain free
E. How is your overall sense of well-being?
1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 near dead and 10 excellent
Compliance was addressed in each patient by asking how many doses were missed and noting how long it took to finish the 280-g container, as well as by weighing the received container at the completion of the study. Each patient was asked if any adverse side effects occurred while on D-ribose. Finally, each patient commented on his or her overall subjective feeling while taking D-ribose: much better, somewhat better, no change, somewhat worse, or much worse.
RESULTS
Of the 41 patients enrolled in the study, five patients were considered noncompliant; therefore, they were excluded from the study and final analysis. Noncompliance was defined as having consumed half or less of the provided D-ribose during the study. Of the 36 remaining patients, the average age was 48 years, 78% were female. Patients had been ill with CFS/FMS for an average of 7.15 years. Further demographics are summarized in Table 1. The average length
of time on D-ribose was 25 days (range, 17 to 35 days). Subjectively, significant improvements were found in energy levels (p 0.0001), sleep patterns (p 0.0001), mental clarity (p 0.003), pain threshold (p 0.026), and the patient’s state of well-being (p 0.0001) when comparing
questionnaires at enrollment and at the completion of the study in all of the patients (Table 2). Table 3 denotes the pre- and postribose assessments in patient categories for each separate syndrome. At the completion of the study, patients also felt a positive subjective improvement while taking D-ribose (Table 4). Twenty-three (23) of the 35 patients (65.7%) completing
the assessment experienced improvement during the course of the study (somewhat better to much better) while taking D-ribose. The responses were compared to the null 858 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
TABLE 1. PATIENT DEMOGRAPHICS
Patient demographics
Sex Female: 28 (78%)
Average age 48 years (21–62)
Previous diagnosis: FMS 75%
Previous diagnosis: CFS 58%
Average duration CORvalen therapya 28 days (17–35)
FMS, fibromyalgia; CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome.
aValen Labs, Minneapolis, MN. response of “No Change” in a one-sample nonparametric
sign test and signed rank test. Both tests resulted in statistical
significance (p 0.0001).
The following subgroup analyses were also performed: gender, age, CFS, and FMS. Gender was at least a marginally significant predictor of measured outcomes: energy levels (p 0.02), sleep patterns (p 0.001), mental clarity (p 0.002), pain threshold (p 0.06), state of well-being
(p 0.03), and total score (p 0.001). Age was not associated with any of the outcome parameters: energy levels (p 0.80), sleep patterns (p 0.32), mental clarity (p 0.97), pain threshold (p 0.50), a state of well-being (p 0.45), and total score (p 0.58). A prior diagnosis of CFS was not associated with any of the outcomes: energy levels (p 0.59), sleep patterns (p 0.28), mental clarity (p 0.33), pain threshold (p 0.39), state of well-being (p 0.39), and total score (p 0.27). Likewise, a prior diagnosis of FMS was not associated with any of the measured outcomes: energy levels (p 0.58), sleep patterns (p 0.29), mental clarity (p 0.20), pain threshold (p 0.43), state of well-being (p 0.33), and total score (p 0.24). Of the five patients that were found to be noncompliant,
three stopped taking D-ribose because of a hyperanxious feeling (one patient), lightheadedness (one patient), and increased appetite (one patient). Two others changed their mind and simply did not begin the study. Of the remaining 36 patients who completed the study, one patient experienced transient nausea and another felt mild anxiety. Both of these reactions were reversed by simply lowering the dose of D-ribose.
DISCUSSION
Fibromyalgia and CFS are common, nonarticular, debilitating syndromes that affect approximately 2%–4% of the population worldwide. Patients with FMS and/or CFS generally
demonstrate reduced sustained exercise capacity, with lack of muscular contractile force and endurance.11,12 Similar conditions are frequently associated with abnormal metabolism. Therefore, many FMS and/or CFS studies have investigated potential alterations in muscle metabolism. 6,13,14–19
D-RIBOSE FOR CFS AND FMS 859
TABLE 2. PRE- AND POSTRIBOSE ASSESSMENTS: ALL PATIENTS
Pre Post Difference
Category N mean (std) mean (std) (95% CI) p-Value
Energy level 36 3.8 (1.1) 5.5 (1.5) 1.7 0.0001
(1.1, 2.2)
Sleep 36 4.8 (1.6) 6.0 (1.9) 1.2 0.0001
(0.6, 1.7)
Mental clarity 36 4.9 (1.5) 5.7 (1.7) 0.8 0.003
(0.3, 1.3)
Pain 36 4.9 (2.3) 5.6 (2.2) 0.7 0.026
(0.1, 1.3)
Well-being 36 4.3 (1.3) 5.6 (1.5) 1.3 0.0001
(0.8, 1.9)
CI, confidence interval.
TABLE 3. PRE- AND POSTRIBOSE ASSESSMENTS PER DIAGNOSIS
FMS CFS Both FMS/CFS
(N 15) (N 9) (N 12)
Pre mean Post mean Improvement Pre mean Post mean Improvement Pre mean Post mean Improvement
Category (std) (std) (%) (std) (std) (%) (std) (std) (%)
Energy 3.7 5.5 1.8 4.2 6.1 1.9 3.7 4.9 1.2
(1.0) (1.5) (48%) (1.4) (1.5) (45%) (1.2) (1.4) (32%)
Sleep 4.4 5.9 1.5 5.6 7.2 1.6 4.8 5.2 0.4
(1.2) (1.6) (34%) (1.7) (1.7) (29%) (1.9) (2.2) (8%)
Mental clarity (14..07) (15..87) (211.%0 ) (25..02) (16..76) (217.%4 ) (15..71) (15..31) 0
Pain (24..35) (25..05) (212.%0 ) (62..73) (71..86) (116.%1 ) (41..16) (41..12) 0
Well-being 4.1 5.7 1.6 4.6 6.3 1.7 4.3 5.0 0.7
(1.0) (1.5) (39%) (1.7) (1.2) (37%) (1.3) (1.5) (16%)
FMS, fibromyalgia; CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy source of all living cells. In tissues subjected to metabolic stress, such as hypoxia, ischemia, or known conditions of mitochondrial dysfunction, ATP is catabolized with compromised metabolic recovery. With ATP catabolism, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) levels accumulate, forcing the cell to try to balance ATP/ADP ratios in order to maintain energy
stasis. However, these reactions ultimately lead to an increased intracellular concentration of adenosine monophosphate (AMP). In an effort to try to control energy balance, the cell catabolizes AMP, ultimately forming inosine, hypoxanthine, and adenine. These catabolic end products are washed out of the cell, resulting in a net loss of purines and an ultimate reduction in the total pool of adenine nucleotides. Potentially, up to 90% of these produced catabolites can be biochemically salvaged and recycled. 9,20,21
The rate of recovery of these energy substrates in metabolically stressed cells is important for functional recovery of the cell, including muscle.20,21–23 Therapeutic solutions that could
try to maintain a cell’s energy stasis include either blocking the degradation of adenine nucleotides or providing metabolic supplementation to enhance nucleotide recovery via the salvage or de novo pathways of purine synthesis. The availability of 5-phosphoribosyl-L-pyrophosphate (PRPP) is rate limiting in adenine nucleotide de novo synthesis and salvage pathways, which is necessary to preserve or rebuild cellular energy stores.9,20,21 5-Phosphoribosyl-Lpyrophasphate is formed through pyrophosphorylation of ribose-
5-phosphate that is, itself, synthesized from glucose via the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP; or hexose monophosphate shunt). The rate-limiting enzymes in the PPP, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, are poorly expressed in heart and muscle cells. As such, in skeletal muscle the PPP is suppressed, limiting ribose availability as a substrate to drive the purine nucleotide pathway and retarding purine nucleotide synthesis
during or following a metabolic insult. The energy reserve, phosphorylation potential (PP), and
the ability to use oxygen (total oxidative capacity or Vmax) have been determined using P-31 MRS in both normal and fibromyalgic muscle.16 Both mean PP and Vmax values are found to be significantly reduced in FMS.16 These findings are consistent with reduced oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis, which translate clinically to muscle fatigue, soreness, and stiffness.24 Impairment in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and potentially diminished glucose metabolism impact ATP turnover, suggesting that the muscles of fibromyalgia patients are energy starved. Further, decreased ATP concentrations with accompanying changes in
energy metabolism have been found in the red blood cells of fibromyalgia patients,25 suggesting that this energy deficiency may be systemic.
Muscular metabolic abnormalities in fibromyalgia have been proposed.6 Dysfunctional metabolism has been shown to lead to cellular abnormalities6 that impact cellular function,
producing clinical symptoms. Muscle biopsies have shown that levels of phosphocreatine (PCr) and ATP are significantly reduced (21% and 17%, respectively) in muscle tissues of fibromyalgia patients and the synthesis of PCr, an important store of cellular high-energy phosphates, is deficient. Magnetic imaging of skeletal muscle has shown that resting levels of ATP are 15% lower in fibromyalgia patients than in normal controls and during exercise PCr and ATP levels remain significantly low.14,16,19 During exercise there is an increase in metabolic breakdown products of ATP (phosphodiesters) in fibromyalgic skeletal muscle groups, indicating abnormal adenine nucleotide metabolism and disruption of cell membranes, which are common in other muscular diseases. There has been speculation that these findings may be similar in patients afflicted with CFS.16 It also has been shown that there are a decreased numbers of capillaries within fibromyalgic muscle fibers, which can reduce the oxidative capacity, leading to limited energy turnover, purine pool depletion, and increased pain.24,26 Thickening of the capillary endothelium also contributes to restricted oxygen transport or delivery, further lowering oxygen tension in the muscle, affecting energy metabolism and contributing to functional fatigue and weakness. In general, the fibromyalgic muscle has lower ATP concentrations than normal muscle. Further, these factors can alter calcium and cellular ion stasis, which, clinically can produce muscle soreness, stiffness, fatigue, and diminished exercise capacity. Patients with FMS and/or CFS may therefore have an alteration in muscular energy use and metabolism. Fibromyalgic muscle reaches anaerobic threshold earlier in exercise, thereby potentially using less available energy-rich phosphate metabolites at maximal work capacity. Patients with FMS may have abnormal high-energy phosphate metabolism with significantly lower levels of ATP and ADP in affected muscles as compared to normal controls.24
The findings in this pilot study, using daily D-ribose, revealed an increased improvement in the quality of life in patients afflicted with FMS/CFS. However, there are several limitations noted in this study. A major limitation centers on a lack of a placebo group. This was, however, meant as
an initial pilot study with each patient acting as their own control. A follow-up RCT is, of course, critical and currently 860 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
TABLE 4. GLOBAL SUBJECTIVE FEELING RATING
Response N (%)
Much better 5 (14.3%)
Somewhat better 17 (48.6%)
Somewhat better/no change 1 (2.9%)
No change 9 (25.7%)
No change/somewhat worse 1 (2.9%)
Somewhat worse 2 (5.7%)
Much worse 0 (0%)
under way using information (and impetus) gained from this pilot study. In addition, as patients were not seen in a clinic, initial assessment of each patient relied on their own personal physician providing an accurate clinical diagnosis of FMS/CFS. This pilot assessment was designed as a clinically focused, community-based study, and this reflects what occurs in most patients’ cases.
Subjective outcome measures were only assessed in this study. The diagnoses and effectiveness of therapies of FMS and CFS are largely based on subjective symptoms. As no accepted diagnostic laboratory tests are available to confirm the diagnoses of and monitor progress in these syndromes, it is reasonable to rely on subjective outcome measurements in this clinical setting. Also, patients did not eliminate other stable treatment modalities they had been on during the study. However, patients were instructed not to make any changes in their treatment regimen during the study. D-Ribose produced a subjective beneficial outcome in these patients;
therefore, the addition of D-ribose may offer an added benefit to their concurrent therapies.
CONCLUSIONS
This pilot study suggests that D-ribose may provide subjective benefits in patients with FMS and/or CFS. Given the biochemical benefits of D-ribose on increasing muscular energy pools and reducing metabolic strain in affected muscles, the use of this supplement may offer a valuable option for improving quality of life in patients afflicted with FMS and/or CFS.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors thank Valen Labs, Inc. (Minneapolis, MN) for providing the oral D-ribose. Dr. Teitelbaum has no financial conflict of interest and his payment for doing the study was donated to charity. Dr. St. Cyr is a consultant for Valen Labs, and Mr. Johnson is on staff at Valen Labs.
REFERENCES
1. Goldenberg DL. Fibromyalgia syndrome—an emerging but controversial condition. JAMA 1987;257:2782–2787.
2. Wolfe F, Ross K, Anderson J, et al. The prevalence and characteristics of fibromyalgia in the general population. Arthritis Rheumatol 1995;38:19–28.
3. Travell JG, Simons DG. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual, vol. 1. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1983.
4. Peckerman A, LaMancha JJ, Dahl KA, et al. Abnormal impedance cardiography predicts symptom severity in chronic fatigue syndrome. Am J Med Sci 2003;26:55–60.
5. Teitelbaum JE, Bird B, Greenfield RM, et al. Effective treatment of CFS and FMS: A randomized, double-blind placebo controlled study. J Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 2001;8:3–24.
6. Bengtson A, Heriksson KG, Larsson J. Reduced high-energy phosphate levels in the painful muscles of patients with primary fibromyalgia. Arthritis Rheumatol 1986;29:817–821.
7. Eisinger J, Plantamura A, Ayavou T. Glycolysis abnormalities in fibromyalgia. J Am Coll Nutr 1994;13:144–148.
8. Omran H, Illien S, MacCarter D, et al. D-Ribose improves diastolic function and quality of life in congestive heart failure patients: A prospective feasibility study. Eur J Heart Failure
2003;5:615–619.
9. Hellsten Y, Skadgauge L, Bangsbo J. Effect of ribose supplementation on resynthesis of adenine nucleotides after intense intermittent training in humans. Am J Physiol 2004;286:
R182–R188.
10. Gebhart B, Jorgenson J. Benefit of ribose in a patient with fibromyalgia. Pharmacotherapy 2004;24:1646–1648.
11. Lund N, Bengtsson A, Thorborg P. Muscle tissue oxygen in primary fibromyalgia. Scan J Rheumatol 1986;15:165–173.
12. Schachter CL, Busch AL, Peloso PM, Shepard MS. Effects of short versus long bouts of aerobic exercise in sedentary women with fibromyalgia: A randomized controlled trial. Phys Ther 2003;83:340–358.
13. Lund E, Kendall SA, Janerot-Sjoberg B, Bengtsson A. Muscle metabolism in fibromyalgia studied by P-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
Scand J Rheumatol 2003;32:138–145.
14. Strobl ES, Krapf M, Suckfull M, et al. Tissue oxygen measurement and 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with muscle tension and fibromyalgia. Rheumatol Int
1997;16:175–180.
15. Krapf MW, Muller S, Mennet P, et al. Recording muscle spasms in the erector spinae using in vivo 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with chronic lumbalgia and generalized tendomyopathies. Z Rheumatol 1992;51:229–237.
16. Park JH, Phothimat P, Oates CT, et al. Use of P-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy to detect metabolic abnormalities in muscles of patients with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Rheumatol
1998;41:406–413.
17. Jacobsen S, Jensen KE, Thomsen C, et al. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy in fibromyalgia. A study of phosphate-31 spectra from skeletal muscles during rest and after exercise. Ugeskr
Laeger 1994;156:6841–6844.
18. Kushmerick MJ. Muscle energy metabolism, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and their potential in the study of fibromyalgia. J Rheumatol 1989;(Suppl 19):40–46.
19. Sprott H, Rzanny R, Reichenbach JR, et al. 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in fibromyalgic muscle. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2000;39:1121–1125.
20. Brault JJ, Terjung RL. Purine salvage to adenine nucleotides in different skeletal muscle fiber types. J Appl Physiol 2001;91:231–238.
21. Tullson PC, Terjung RL. Adenine nucleotide synthesis in exercising and endurance-trained skeletal muscle. Am J Physiol 1991;261:C342–C347.
22. Reibel D, Rovetto M. Myocardial ATP synthesis and mechanical function following oxygen deficiency. Am J Physiol. 1978;234:H620–H624. D-RIBOSE FOR CFS AND FMS 861
23. Williamson DL, Gallagher PM, Goddard MP, Trappe SW. Effects of ribose supplementation on adenine nucleotide concentration in skeletal muscle following high-intensity exercise.
Med Sci Sport Exc 2001;33(5 suppl):5166.
24. Olson NJ, Park JH. Skeletal muscle abnormalities in patients with fibromyalgia. Am J Med Sci 1998;315:351–358.
25. Eisinger J, Bagneres D, Arroyo P, et al. Effects of magnesium, high-energy phosphates, piracetam and thiamin on erythrocyte transketolase. Magnet Res 1994;7:59–61.
26. Bengtsson A, Henriksson KG. The muscle in fibromyalgia—a review of Swedish studies. J Rheumatol Suppl 1989;19:144–149.
Address reprint requests to:
Jacob E. Teitelbaum, M.D.
76-6326 Kaheiau Street
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
E-mail: Endfatigue@aol.com
862 TEITELBAUM ET AL.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
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Primary fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition affecting principally middle-aged women, characterized by a syndrome of generalized musculoskeletal pain, aches, stiffness, and tenderness at specific anatomical sites. This condition is considered primary when there are no obvious causes. Since it was first described, FM has become recognized as a fairly common rheumatic complaint with a clinical prevalence of 6 to 20 percent. Additionally, FM has been associated with irritable bowel syndrome, tension headache, mitral valve prolapse, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Numerous treatment modalities have been attempted to treat patients with FM, but unfortunately the results have usually been poor. The primary reason for this lack of success was undoubtedly due to our lack of understanding FMs etiology.
In recent years, evidence has accumulated to suggest that FM is the result of local hypoxia in the muscles. For instance, patients with FM have low muscle-tissue oxygen pressure in affected muscles, and to a lesser degree the same was found in other tissues. Muscle biopsies from affected areas showed muscle tissue breakdown and mitochondrial damage. Additionally, low levels of the high energy phosphates ATP, ADP, and phosphocreatine were found. It has been hypothesized that in hypoxic muscle tissues glycolysis is inhibited, reducing ATP synthesis. This stimulates the process of gluconeogenesis, which results in the breakdown of muscle proteins to amino acids that can be utilized as substrates for ATP synthesis. This muscle tissue breakdown, which has been observed in muscle biopsies taken from FM patients, is hypothesized to result in the muscle pain characteristic of FM.
Malic acid is both derived from food sources and synthesized in the body through the citric acid (Krebs) cycle. Its importance to the production of energy in the body during both aerobic and anaerobic conditions is well established. Under aerobic conditions, the oxidation of malate to oxaloacetate provides reducing equivalents to the mitochondria through the malate-aspartate redox shuttle. During anaerobic conditions, where a buildup of excess of reducing equivalents inhibits glycolysis, malic acids simultaneous reduction to succinate and oxidation to oxaloacetate is capable of removing the accumulating reducing equivalents. This allows malic acid to reverse hypoxias inhibition of glycolysis and energy production. This may allow malic acid to improve energy production in FM, reversing the negative effect of the relative hypoxia that has been found in these patients.
Because of its obvious relationship to energy depletion during exercise, malic acid may be of benefit to healthy individuals interested in maximizing their energy production, as well as those with FM. In the rat it has been found that only tissue malate is depleted following exhaustive physical activity. Other key metabolites from the citric acid cycle needed for energy production were found to be unchanged. Because of this, a deficiency of malic acid has been hypothesized to be a major cause of physical exhaustion. The administration of malic acid to rats has been shown to elevate mitochondrial malate and increase mitochondrial respiration and energy production. Surprisingly, relatively small amounts of exogenous malic acid were required to increase mitochondrial energy production and ATP formation. Under hypoxic conditions there is an increased demand and utilization of malic acid, and this demand is normally met by increasing the synthesis of malic acid through gluconeogenesis and muscle protein
breakdown. This ultimately results in muscle breakdown and damage.
In a study on the effect of the oral administration of malic acid to rats, a significant increase in anaerobic endurance was found. Interestingly, the improvement in endurance was not accompanied by an increase in carbohydrate and oxygen utilization, suggesting that malic acid has carbohydrate and oxygen-sparing effects. In addition, malic acid is the only metabolite of the citric acid cycle positively correlated with physical activity. It has also been demonstrated that exercise-induced mitochondrial respiration is associated with an accumulation of malic acid. In humans, endurance training is associated with a significant increase in the enzymes involved with malic acid metabolism.
Because of the compelling evidence that malic acid plays a central role in energy production, especially during hypoxic conditions, malic acid supplements have been examined for their effects on FM. Subjective improvement in pain was observed within 48 hours of supplementation with 1200 - 2400 milligrams of malic acid, and this improvement was lost following the discontinuation of malic acid for 48 hours. While these studies also used magnesium supplements, due to the fact that magnesium is often low in FM patients, the rapid improvement following malic acid, as well as the rapid deterioration after discontinuation, suggests that malic acid is the most important component. This interesting theory of localized hypoxia in FM, and the ability of malic acid to overcome the block in energy production that this causes, should provide hope for those afflicted with FM. The potential for malic acid supplements, however, reaches much farther than FM. In light of malic acids ability to improve animal exercise performance, its potential for human athletes is particularly exciting.
Additionally, many hypoxia related conditions, such as respiratory and circulatory insufficiency, are associated with deficient energy production. Therefore, malic acid supplements may be of benefit in these conditions. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has also been found to be associated with FM, and malic acid supplementation may be of use in improving energy production in this condition as well. Lastly, malic acid may be of use as a general supplement aimed at ensuring an optimal level of malic acid within the cells, and thus, maintaining an optimal level of energy production.
Metagenics Fibroplex has: Thiamin (as thiamin mononitrate) 50 mgVitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl) 50 mgMagnesium (as magnesium bis-glycinate†) 150 mgManganese (as manganese glycinate†) 5 mgMalic Acid 600 mg
Metagenics Fibroplex® Plus - Support for Muscle Tenderness and Discomfort
Fibroplex® Plus provides targeted nutritional support for soft tissues in those with muscle tenderness and discomfort. Featuring a blend of specific vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in an easy-to-use delivery form, this specialized formula works by supporting cellular energy production and muscular and nervous system function.
Improvement in pain observed within 48 hours of supplementation with 1200-2400 mg. of malic acid per day. Buy Metagenics Fibroplex with magnesium and malic acid at a discount
Combine Bioenergy Corvalen Ribose with Metagenics Fibroplex for muscle pains and energy - Corvalen Lowest Price with Free Shipping
Primary fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition affecting principally middle-aged women, characterized by a syndrome of generalized musculoskeletal pain, aches, stiffness, and tenderness at specific anatomical sites. This condition is considered primary when there are no obvious causes. Since it was first described, FM has become recognized as a fairly common rheumatic complaint with a clinical prevalence of 6 to 20 percent. Additionally, FM has been associated with irritable bowel syndrome, tension headache, mitral valve prolapse, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Numerous treatment modalities have been attempted to treat patients with FM, but unfortunately the results have usually been poor. The primary reason for this lack of success was undoubtedly due to our lack of understanding FMs etiology.
In recent years, evidence has accumulated to suggest that FM is the result of local hypoxia in the muscles. For instance, patients with FM have low muscle-tissue oxygen pressure in affected muscles, and to a lesser degree the same was found in other tissues. Muscle biopsies from affected areas showed muscle tissue breakdown and mitochondrial damage. Additionally, low levels of the high energy phosphates ATP, ADP, and phosphocreatine were found. It has been hypothesized that in hypoxic muscle tissues glycolysis is inhibited, reducing ATP synthesis. This stimulates the process of gluconeogenesis, which results in the breakdown of muscle proteins to amino acids that can be utilized as substrates for ATP synthesis. This muscle tissue breakdown, which has been observed in muscle biopsies taken from FM patients, is hypothesized to result in the muscle pain characteristic of FM.
Malic acid is both derived from food sources and synthesized in the body through the citric acid (Krebs) cycle. Its importance to the production of energy in the body during both aerobic and anaerobic conditions is well established. Under aerobic conditions, the oxidation of malate to oxaloacetate provides reducing equivalents to the mitochondria through the malate-aspartate redox shuttle. During anaerobic conditions, where a buildup of excess of reducing equivalents inhibits glycolysis, malic acids simultaneous reduction to succinate and oxidation to oxaloacetate is capable of removing the accumulating reducing equivalents. This allows malic acid to reverse hypoxias inhibition of glycolysis and energy production. This may allow malic acid to improve energy production in FM, reversing the negative effect of the relative hypoxia that has been found in these patients.
Because of its obvious relationship to energy depletion during exercise, malic acid may be of benefit to healthy individuals interested in maximizing their energy production, as well as those with FM. In the rat it has been found that only tissue malate is depleted following exhaustive physical activity. Other key metabolites from the citric acid cycle needed for energy production were found to be unchanged. Because of this, a deficiency of malic acid has been hypothesized to be a major cause of physical exhaustion. The administration of malic acid to rats has been shown to elevate mitochondrial malate and increase mitochondrial respiration and energy production. Surprisingly, relatively small amounts of exogenous malic acid were required to increase mitochondrial energy production and ATP formation. Under hypoxic conditions there is an increased demand and utilization of malic acid, and this demand is normally met by increasing the synthesis of malic acid through gluconeogenesis and muscle protein
breakdown. This ultimately results in muscle breakdown and damage.
In a study on the effect of the oral administration of malic acid to rats, a significant increase in anaerobic endurance was found. Interestingly, the improvement in endurance was not accompanied by an increase in carbohydrate and oxygen utilization, suggesting that malic acid has carbohydrate and oxygen-sparing effects. In addition, malic acid is the only metabolite of the citric acid cycle positively correlated with physical activity. It has also been demonstrated that exercise-induced mitochondrial respiration is associated with an accumulation of malic acid. In humans, endurance training is associated with a significant increase in the enzymes involved with malic acid metabolism.
Because of the compelling evidence that malic acid plays a central role in energy production, especially during hypoxic conditions, malic acid supplements have been examined for their effects on FM. Subjective improvement in pain was observed within 48 hours of supplementation with 1200 - 2400 milligrams of malic acid, and this improvement was lost following the discontinuation of malic acid for 48 hours. While these studies also used magnesium supplements, due to the fact that magnesium is often low in FM patients, the rapid improvement following malic acid, as well as the rapid deterioration after discontinuation, suggests that malic acid is the most important component. This interesting theory of localized hypoxia in FM, and the ability of malic acid to overcome the block in energy production that this causes, should provide hope for those afflicted with FM. The potential for malic acid supplements, however, reaches much farther than FM. In light of malic acids ability to improve animal exercise performance, its potential for human athletes is particularly exciting.
Additionally, many hypoxia related conditions, such as respiratory and circulatory insufficiency, are associated with deficient energy production. Therefore, malic acid supplements may be of benefit in these conditions. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has also been found to be associated with FM, and malic acid supplementation may be of use in improving energy production in this condition as well. Lastly, malic acid may be of use as a general supplement aimed at ensuring an optimal level of malic acid within the cells, and thus, maintaining an optimal level of energy production.
Metagenics Fibroplex has: Thiamin (as thiamin mononitrate) 50 mgVitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCl) 50 mgMagnesium (as magnesium bis-glycinate†) 150 mgManganese (as manganese glycinate†) 5 mgMalic Acid 600 mg
Metagenics Fibroplex® Plus - Support for Muscle Tenderness and Discomfort
Fibroplex® Plus provides targeted nutritional support for soft tissues in those with muscle tenderness and discomfort. Featuring a blend of specific vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in an easy-to-use delivery form, this specialized formula works by supporting cellular energy production and muscular and nervous system function.
- Provides targeted nutrition for soft tissue in those with muscle tenderness and discomfort.
- Provides targeted support for energy metabolism and neuromuscular function.
- Supports cellular energy production and mitochondrial function.
- Provides magnesium in the form of an amino acid chelate designed to be easily absorbed.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Special Report: Condition Specific Nutrition CORvalenM
Buy CorvalenM or Corvalen at the lowest price with FREE Shipping
by John St. Cyr, M.D.
CORvalenM™ is the common denominator for all individuals needing to restore cellular energy. As a product extension of CORvalen, a medical food for heart disease patients, it was created to help those suffering from myalgia and chronic fatigue. However, because of the benefits CORvalenM provided to its users, it was also discovered that active individuals could reap the benefits of this natural supplement.
The Ingredients
A variety of conditions can leave people constantly fatigued, short of breath, stiff and sore, making it impossible to face life’s daily activities. Over exertion of or exercise weaken muscles and drain energy reserves, leaving people tired and achy. Often, this fatigue, shortness of breath, soreness, stiffness, and general lack of well-being are associated with depleted energy from the cells and tissues. CORvalenM, with D-ribose, magnesium and malic acid (three substances found naturally in your body) has been clinically proven to be critical in rebuilding cellular energy. The results are dramatic, with people feeling less pain and more energy. D-ribose, the main ingredient in CORvalenM, is a fivecarbon monosaccharide that is vital for the cellular synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the energy of life, and ribose is the fundamental building block of ATP. Without ribose, the process of energy synthesis slows dramatically. Ribose has been clinically proven to effectively speed energy recovery in cells and to improve cardiac function, muscle recovery, and overall quality of life.
The Benefits
Whether suffering from myalgia or chronic fatigue, or needing to recover faster during endurance training, CORvalenM is the perfect natural supplement. When hard work, strenuous exercise, or certain medical conditions stress cells, cellular energy is burned faster than it can be restored. The result is pain, soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. Healthy cells often can rebuild these energy levels eventually, but the process is slow. And chronically energy-starved cells may never fully recover. CORvalenM accelerates this recovery. From endurance athletes to active people who like to run or take a long walk, high energy levels are important to everyone. But energy is especially critical to people who suffer from debilitating myalgia, soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. By taking CORvalenM, normal energy levels are restored and the whole body feels more energetic. More importantly, people taking CORvalenM report an increased sense of well-being and an improved quality of life. CORvalenM is proven safe, effective and beneficial to those needing to restore energy, minimize fatigue and alleviate muscle pain, soreness and stiffness.
by John St. Cyr, M.D.
CORvalenM™ is the common denominator for all individuals needing to restore cellular energy. As a product extension of CORvalen, a medical food for heart disease patients, it was created to help those suffering from myalgia and chronic fatigue. However, because of the benefits CORvalenM provided to its users, it was also discovered that active individuals could reap the benefits of this natural supplement.
The Ingredients
A variety of conditions can leave people constantly fatigued, short of breath, stiff and sore, making it impossible to face life’s daily activities. Over exertion of or exercise weaken muscles and drain energy reserves, leaving people tired and achy. Often, this fatigue, shortness of breath, soreness, stiffness, and general lack of well-being are associated with depleted energy from the cells and tissues. CORvalenM, with D-ribose, magnesium and malic acid (three substances found naturally in your body) has been clinically proven to be critical in rebuilding cellular energy. The results are dramatic, with people feeling less pain and more energy. D-ribose, the main ingredient in CORvalenM, is a fivecarbon monosaccharide that is vital for the cellular synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the energy of life, and ribose is the fundamental building block of ATP. Without ribose, the process of energy synthesis slows dramatically. Ribose has been clinically proven to effectively speed energy recovery in cells and to improve cardiac function, muscle recovery, and overall quality of life.
The Benefits
Whether suffering from myalgia or chronic fatigue, or needing to recover faster during endurance training, CORvalenM is the perfect natural supplement. When hard work, strenuous exercise, or certain medical conditions stress cells, cellular energy is burned faster than it can be restored. The result is pain, soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. Healthy cells often can rebuild these energy levels eventually, but the process is slow. And chronically energy-starved cells may never fully recover. CORvalenM accelerates this recovery. From endurance athletes to active people who like to run or take a long walk, high energy levels are important to everyone. But energy is especially critical to people who suffer from debilitating myalgia, soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. By taking CORvalenM, normal energy levels are restored and the whole body feels more energetic. More importantly, people taking CORvalenM report an increased sense of well-being and an improved quality of life. CORvalenM is proven safe, effective and beneficial to those needing to restore energy, minimize fatigue and alleviate muscle pain, soreness and stiffness.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
D-Ribose Offers New Option for Boosting Energy
Press Release
UNIQUE SUGAR NOW FEATURED ON ANDREW WEIL, MD WEB SITE
D-Ribose Offers New Option for Boosting Energy
UNIQUE SUGAR NOW FEATURED ON ANDREW WEIL, MD WEB SITE
D-Ribose Offers New Option for Boosting Energy
MINNEAPOLIS, MN, October 8, 2007—Now, millions of people worldwide who rely on the medical expertise of Andrew Weil, MD, can learn about the benefits of D-ribose at http://www.drweil.com.
In a Q &A, Dr. Weil, America's trusted health advisor, explains the science behind this breakthrough, natural supplement. D-Ribose, a naturally occurring five-carbon sugar, is made by the body to synthesize many important compounds, including DNA, RNA, and most importantly, ATP, the "energy currency" of the cells. ATP is critical to health and maintaining normal energy-dependent body functions. Ribose is the essential component in the making of ATP. Weil says, "Because ATP is rapidly used by muscles in high intensity workouts and because RNA is important in protein synthesis, ribose supplements and energy drinks containing ribose are being promoted for energy enhancement and better exercise performance."
Visitors to Dr. Weil's site also will discover other life enhancing benefits associated with D-ribose. For example, Dr. Weil says that "emerging evidence does suggest that they [ribose supplements] benefit patients with congestive heart failure . . . In a study at the University of Bonn, ribose appears to improve heart function and quality of life among these patients by increasing levels and availability of ATP."
In addition to its restorative properties for heart health Dr. Weil points out that "ribose may ease the pain and fatigue of patients with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Referencing a study published last year in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Dr. Weil says that "patients who took five grams of ribose three times a day for an average of 28 days reported less muscle soreness and stiffness, better ability to overcome fatigue, and simply feeling better." He also indicates that "further studies suggest that ribose may also help improve exercise tolerance in high intensity activities."
Dr. Weil recommends for those who find ribose beneficial that they limit their intake to no more than five grams three times a day. Although ribose is made naturally inside the body, its production is slow and limited by several enzymes that are in short supply in heart and muscle cells. Normally, this is not a problem except when hearts or muscles are challenged by the stress of exercise or lack of oxygen due to cardiovascular disease, circulatory disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. If the energy metabolism process isn't working properly, it drains energy reserves and depletes the cellular energy pool. This frequently leads to pain, soreness, stiffness and an overall feeling of fatigue. Supplementing these stressed cells with D-ribose restores cellular energy.
The ribose Q&A appeared on Dr. Weil's home page (http://www.drweil.com) on October 5 through and October 7, 2007. After that, visitors can find the information by conducting a search on the site for "ribose.”
###
Bioenergy Inc.—The Ribose Company— www.bioenergy.com is a privately held, Minneapolis-based life sciences company whose core technology lies in the development and commercialization of products based on the physiological benefits of D-ribose in health and wellness. Bioenergy's clear mission is to develop products that increase the quality of its customers' lives by improving their metabolic health. Bioenergy Life Science, Inc., its subsidiary, markets ribose-based products to the functional food and clinical nutrition markets. Bioenergy Life Science products include Bioenergy RIBOSE™ , a functional ingredient in the active lifestyle market; Corvalen®, and CorvalenM®, clinical nutrition products giving metabolic support to patients with heart and muscle disease.
Bioenergy Ribose is non-GMO certified. The product is also manufactured under the supervision of the Kashruth Division of the Orthodox Union. Toll-free order line is 1-866-267-8253.
In a Q &A, Dr. Weil, America's trusted health advisor, explains the science behind this breakthrough, natural supplement. D-Ribose, a naturally occurring five-carbon sugar, is made by the body to synthesize many important compounds, including DNA, RNA, and most importantly, ATP, the "energy currency" of the cells. ATP is critical to health and maintaining normal energy-dependent body functions. Ribose is the essential component in the making of ATP. Weil says, "Because ATP is rapidly used by muscles in high intensity workouts and because RNA is important in protein synthesis, ribose supplements and energy drinks containing ribose are being promoted for energy enhancement and better exercise performance."
Visitors to Dr. Weil's site also will discover other life enhancing benefits associated with D-ribose. For example, Dr. Weil says that "emerging evidence does suggest that they [ribose supplements] benefit patients with congestive heart failure . . . In a study at the University of Bonn, ribose appears to improve heart function and quality of life among these patients by increasing levels and availability of ATP."
In addition to its restorative properties for heart health Dr. Weil points out that "ribose may ease the pain and fatigue of patients with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Referencing a study published last year in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Dr. Weil says that "patients who took five grams of ribose three times a day for an average of 28 days reported less muscle soreness and stiffness, better ability to overcome fatigue, and simply feeling better." He also indicates that "further studies suggest that ribose may also help improve exercise tolerance in high intensity activities."
Dr. Weil recommends for those who find ribose beneficial that they limit their intake to no more than five grams three times a day. Although ribose is made naturally inside the body, its production is slow and limited by several enzymes that are in short supply in heart and muscle cells. Normally, this is not a problem except when hearts or muscles are challenged by the stress of exercise or lack of oxygen due to cardiovascular disease, circulatory disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. If the energy metabolism process isn't working properly, it drains energy reserves and depletes the cellular energy pool. This frequently leads to pain, soreness, stiffness and an overall feeling of fatigue. Supplementing these stressed cells with D-ribose restores cellular energy.
The ribose Q&A appeared on Dr. Weil's home page (http://www.drweil.com) on October 5 through and October 7, 2007. After that, visitors can find the information by conducting a search on the site for "ribose.”
###
Bioenergy Inc.—The Ribose Company— www.bioenergy.com is a privately held, Minneapolis-based life sciences company whose core technology lies in the development and commercialization of products based on the physiological benefits of D-ribose in health and wellness. Bioenergy's clear mission is to develop products that increase the quality of its customers' lives by improving their metabolic health. Bioenergy Life Science, Inc., its subsidiary, markets ribose-based products to the functional food and clinical nutrition markets. Bioenergy Life Science products include Bioenergy RIBOSE™ , a functional ingredient in the active lifestyle market; Corvalen®, and CorvalenM®, clinical nutrition products giving metabolic support to patients with heart and muscle disease.
Bioenergy Ribose is non-GMO certified. The product is also manufactured under the supervision of the Kashruth Division of the Orthodox Union. Toll-free order line is 1-866-267-8253.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Ribose (Corvalen)-An Exciting New Discovery!
Corvalen (D-Ribose by Valen Labs) is an outstanding new nutrient (a special sugar-even OK for those who need to avoid sugar!) for those of you who want a powerful energy boost! In addition to its role in making DNA and RNA, those of you familiar with biochemistry remember Ribose as the key building block for making energy. In fact, the main energy molecules (like “Energy dollars”) in your body (ATP, FADH, etc.) are made of ribose plus B vitamins/phosphate. That makes these energy molecules similar to the paper that money is printed on- kind of like being able to print your own energy currency!
Corvalen has many uses, including treating heart muscle weakness (Congestive Heart Failure). We were so impressed with this product that our research center recently completed a study(to be published Nov 2006) reported on in the national news services. Two thirds of CFS/Fibromyalgia patients improved, with an average increase in quality of life of ~25%- outstanding for a single nutrient!
Take 1 scoop 3 times a day for 2 weeks, then decrease to a scoop twice a day, but lower the dose or take it with food if you get hyper from being too energized. The use of Ribose (Corvalen) is a major step forward in treating fatigue with the average CFS/FMS patient in the study having a 45% improvement in energy after 2-3 weeks. In our study, pain, sleep, and “brain fog’ also improved.
by Jacob Teitelbaum M.D.
Buy CorvalenM and Corvalen at a discount with free shipping.
Corvalen has many uses, including treating heart muscle weakness (Congestive Heart Failure). We were so impressed with this product that our research center recently completed a study(to be published Nov 2006) reported on in the national news services. Two thirds of CFS/Fibromyalgia patients improved, with an average increase in quality of life of ~25%- outstanding for a single nutrient!
Take 1 scoop 3 times a day for 2 weeks, then decrease to a scoop twice a day, but lower the dose or take it with food if you get hyper from being too energized. The use of Ribose (Corvalen) is a major step forward in treating fatigue with the average CFS/FMS patient in the study having a 45% improvement in energy after 2-3 weeks. In our study, pain, sleep, and “brain fog’ also improved.
by Jacob Teitelbaum M.D.
Buy CorvalenM and Corvalen at a discount with free shipping.
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