CFS patients may have an abnormal immune system. Hormones (cortisol), infections, or other factors may influence how our immune system reacts to bacteria, viruses, and non-harmful allergans. A type of white blood cell called a T-Helper cell, is created to fight infections, and some doctors think it may play a role in CFS and other diseases.
D-Ribose is a sugar (derived from glucose) that has been shown to boost levels of the energy compound ATP. Some studies have shown that CFS patients have lower than normal levels of ATP and D-Ribose could be used to increase energy production in the muscles and heart.
The increased levels of ATP may help relieve fatigue by provide the muscles with extra energy. D-Ribose also helps the body to recycle ATP, and use its own energy it has more efficiently.
A study by well know chronic fatigue specialist Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, has shown D-ribose to improve sleep, fatigue, concentration, pain and well-being in patients.