Can mannose reduce urinary tract infections?

Among the most common dietary supplements for the treatment of urinary tract infections is D-mannose. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a pathological condition of the urinary tract and it is more frequent in women, rather than in men.

What Is Urinary Tract Infection?

UTI is caused due to infection of the urinary tract by viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Most of the time (90%), urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria that normally colonize our intestinal tract, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli). The first line of non-pharmaceutical treatment for urinary tract infections is abundant fluid consumption and proper cleansing/care of the perinatal area.

D – Mannose

D – mannose is a carbohydrate (disaccharide) found in plant foods such as apples, cranberries, and blueberries. It does not break down in the intestine as it cannot be metabolized. After the digestion of mannose, it travels to the kidneys and it is excreted in the urine,  where it exerts its beneficial effects along the urinary tract.

Many studies have shown that mannose is involved in maintaining a healthy urinary tract and is an important ally for the prevention of urinary tract infections. As a molecule, it has the property of preventing pathogenic microorganisms from adhering to the mucous membranes of the bladder wall and thereby preventing their proliferation and contamination. Certain pathogenic microorganisms, and especially E. Coli, adhere to mannose and they are subsequently excreted through urination by the body. Unlike common antibiotics, E.Coli is not killed but is being removed from the body.

Side effects and interactions

Mannose supplementation does not have any side effect or interaction, even at high doses, so it is often recommended to take it along with common medications for urinary tract infections. As mannose is not metabolized, its intake is safe even for diabetics, children or the elderly.

When and how is it taken?

The action of mannose is relatively immediate, with the first symptoms receding within 1-2 days of taking. Mannose supplementation is recommended for both treatment or prevention of UTIs or even by those who are susceptible to UTIs (athletes, diabetics or during the summer months). In addition, it is recommended for people who take for long-term antibiotics.

Recommended Dosage

Mannose is widely available in dietary supplements, in powder or capsule form. The usual dose is 500 mg daily with water or juice, preferably cranberry juice, every 2 to 3 hours for the first 5 days. Taking mannose should be continued even after the symptoms have subsided for the complete elimination of microbes from the bladder.

In Vita4you you can find a great variety of dietary supplements with D-mannose to experience a good urinary tract infection.