Your body makes a special energy source all on its own. And you can get an extra boost of it from a supplement. The nutrient in question? Ribose.

This simple sugar has been known to invigorate some people who have diseases characterized by chronic fatigue. It’s not for everyone, but if you want to test it out, here’s how Dr. Mehmet Oz, RealAge expert and host of his own national television show (launching today!), suggests you proceed.

The 4-Week Trial
Ribose works by restoring energy production centers in the body. To test its effect on you, try taking 500 milligrams three times a day (mixed into coffee, tea, or a smoothie) for 1 week, and then up the dose to 5 grams three times a day for 3 weeks. If you feel peppier, great. But a word of caution: Ribose sends some people into major energy overdrive. So listen to your body, and taper back as you feel necessary.

More Tried-and-True Energy Boosters
If you feel like you’re dragging, and ribose doesn’t work for you -- or you don’t want to mess with supplements -- check out the other energy boosters Dr. Oz recommends in his daily newspaper column.

Or, better yet, get a daily house call from the doc himself by watching his TV show, premiering this week! Look up your local TV listing of The Dr. Oz Show here.