Overview

D-Mannose is a sugar related to glucose.

D-mannose is used to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and to treat carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome, an inherited metabolic disorder.

D-Mannose, also known as mannose, is a sugar found in many fruits and vegetables, including cranberries, black and red currants, peaches, green beans, cabbage and tomatoes. It is also produced in the body from glucose (another form of sugar).

As a dietary supplement, D-mannose is often touted as a natural way to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder inflammation (cystitis) infections. Although more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that supplements may be useful as an adjunct to conventional treatment.

How does it work?

D-mannose may treat defects caused by genetic defects that lead to abnormal breakdown and production of mannose. d-mannose may prevent certain bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract and causing infections.

Health benefits

Frequent urinary tract infections are treated with low-dose antibiotics for six months or longer. Although this may be effective, it may lead to antibiotic resistance.

Given this possibility, and the fact that more than 7 million healthcare provider visits are due to this type of infection each year, the use of non-antibiotic treatment options is attractive.3

Given this possibility, and the fact that more than 7 million healthcare provider visits are due to this type of infection each year, the use of non-antibiotic treatment options is attractive.

Several small studies have shown that D-mannose may help prevent E. coli (the bacteria that cause the majority of urinary tract infections) from adhering to the cells in the urinary tract.

This may help to prevent and treat urinary tract infections, but more research is needed.