Compositions containing
ketone bodies and / or metabolic precursors thereof suitable for administration to humans and animals, which are characterized by (i) enhancing cardiac performance, especially the efficiency of the heart in utilizing glucose, (ii) providing energy, especially is to provide energy in diabetes and
insulin resistance, (iii) to treat conditions caused by
brain cell damage, especially by delaying or preventing
brain damage in memory-related areas of the brain, such as in Alzheimer's
disease and
Brain damage found in brains with similar conditions. These compositions can be used as nutritional supplements, for example for
athletes, or for the treatment of diseases, especially disorders related to cardiac insufficiency,
insulin resistance and
neuronal damage. The invention also provides methods of treatment as well as novel esters and polymers for inclusion in the compositions of the invention.