D-Mannose is a naturally occurring simple sugar in fruits like cranberries and pineapples. Cranberries are its most common source. D-mannose is one of the active ingredients of cranberry juice and cranberry supplements, especially for the treatment of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). This glyconutrient is considered to be a safe and effective remedy for cystitis and other UTIs caused by the E.coli bacteria. For this reason, D-mannose supplements together with cranberry supplements can be used as natural antibiotics for UTI.
How D-Mannose Works
Only small amounts of D-mannose can be metabolised in the body, but unlike the simple sugar glucose, it is not stored as glycogen in the liver. D-mannose is absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and then goes directly to the bloodstream to be filtered in the kidneys. After filtration, D-mannose goes to the urinary bladder where it does its antibacterial action against E.coli.
The E.coli that initiates bladder infections is one of the beneficial bacteria normally present in the intestinal flora. But when it invades the lower urinary tract, E.coli has very unique and resilient way to start an infectious process. In their cell walls, E.coli has tiny fingerlike projections with tips called lectins. These lectins have the ability to strongly attach the bacteria into bladder walls and of the entire urinary tract. The attachment is so strong that these bacteria are not rinsed out during urination. D-mannose stops this infectious process by sticking to lectins, a lot stronger than how these lectins attach the E.coli bacteria to human cells. When more D-mannose is available in the bladder, they encapsulate the entire E.coli organism and flush them away in the urine.
D-Mannose Benefits
- D-mannose is a natural, safe, and effective prevention and treatment against different Urinary Tract Infections. UTI is a very common infection in women, children, and the elderly. Signs and symptoms of UTI include fever, painful urination, blood in the urine, and urinary frequency.
- D-mannose is a natural support to a healthy urinary system. It’s antibacterial action helps maintain healthy functioning of the kidney & bladder, especially in filtering waste products and toxins from the blood.
D-mannose Side Effects
Natural D-mannose or D-mannose supplements produce no side effects, even with extended use. It is safe for people of all ages and gender, including pregnant women and children. It doesn’t disturb the normal flora of the gut like what antibiotics for UTI do. Recommended dosage for D-mannose depends on the severity of infections and body weight.
