What is D-mannose?
D-mannose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) with a structure similar to glucose.
The body naturally secretes it in small amounts. It lines the walls of the urinary tract and is found particularly in the bladder and urethra.
Its main function is to protect the urinary tract from pathogenic bacteria like E. Coli.
To do this, it has receptors that “attract” the bacteria. Instead of attaching to the walls of the bladder, they are eliminated via urine.
Also read The best dietary supplements for urinary infections
D-mannose is commonly recommended for managing urinary infections. It’s used for treatment and prevention of cystitis and other lower urinary tract infections (UTIs): cystitis, urethritis, painful urination…
It is an alternative to antibiotics or can be used in addition, without affecting their effectiveness.
What are its benefits?
It treats cystitis
Acute cystitis is a urinary infection located in the bladder. In most cases, it is caused by harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli.
These bacteria attach to the bladder walls and multiply, causing burning sensations and pain when urinating.
D-mannose treats cystitis and eliminates these bacteria. It also improves the symptoms.
On the one hand, it has an anti-adhesion action by preventing bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls (urinary epithelium). It also detaches bacteria already present.
On the other hand, it activates receptors that act like a magnet on the E. Coli bacteria, causing it to attach to the receptors. These are then expelled and eliminated via urine.
This study confirms its effectiveness in treating urinary infections. It showed efficacy comparable to an antibiotic, nitrofurantoin, used to treat bacterial infections of the urinary tract.
It prevents urinary infections
D-mannose is not only useful for curative treatment. It is also recommended to prevent urinary infections.
It is beneficial for people most at risk of infections: pregnant or menopausal women, the elderly…
As shown by this study, it prevents recurrences that are frequent after an acute cystitis. It acts without causing side effects.
It relieves symptoms
Over time, its action helps to regain urinary comfort. It relieves symptoms and the discomfort caused by the infection.
It reduces the sensation of burning and the pain during urination. It alleviates the frequent urge to urinate and the pressure in the lower abdomen.
Where to find it?
As a dietary supplement, D-mannose is available in different forms: capsules, tablets, powder, and sticks.
It is also present in food but in smaller quantities. It is notably found in cranberries and certain fruits (peaches, oranges, pineapples, blueberries…).
Note: It is essential to diagnose a urinary infection by the attending physician during a first episode, in each episode of recurrence if the symptoms persist for more than 3 days, in case of pregnancy, or in case of associated symptoms (fever, lower back pain).
