| abstract |
Compositions comprising cyclic oligomers of (R)-3- hydroxybutrate of formula (I) or its complex with one or more cations or its salt together with a foodstuff are disclosed, wherein n is 1 to 20, and these compositions are suitable for administration to humans and animals and which have the properties of, inter alia, (i) increasing cardiac efficiency, particularly efficiency in use of glucose, (ii) for providing energy source, particularly in diabetes and insulin resistant states and (iii) treating disorders caused by damage to brain cells, particularly by retarding or preventing brain damage in memory associated brain areas such as found in Alzheimer's and similar conditions. These compositions may be taken as nutritional aids, for example for athletes, or for the treatment of medical conditions, particularly those associated with poor cardiac efficiency, insulin resistance and neuronal damage. |