Ribose is naturally produced by the pentose phosphate pathway found in virtually all cells.

​

The in vivo production of ribose is slow and steady but unable to keep pace with emergency situations:
PSS, downers, postmortem, ischemic heart disease in humans, etc.

​

Adding ribose to the diet bypasses the rate limiting step for R-5P, the precursor to PPRP, the precursor to ultimate synthesis of ATP.  This rate limiting reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.
 

​Ribose is available as a product of fermentation and is widely used as a health supplement.

​

Ribose is GRAS, needs no approval as a feed- or water-additive for animals (USDA).