D-Mannose is a monosaccharide present in small amounts in many foods and, in larger quantities such as in supplement form, can help treat and prevent urinary tract infections as effectively as, or even more effectively than, antibiotic treatments.
Bacterial urinary tract infections are extremely common, especially in women, although they also occur in men.
Although many urinary tract infections (UTIs) resolve on their own, treatment is common because leaving them untreated can lead to more serious infections. The usual treatment is antibiotics, although the specific bacteria and/or fungi causing the infection are not typically identified.
For many people, these treatments work well and the infection clears up; however, we cannot ignore the damage that antibiotics do to the digestive and vaginal microbiota. This damage can take a long time to resolve and can result in other digestive and vaginal problems.
On the other hand, despite the use of antibiotics, some infections can become recurrent. Two or more urinary tract infections in six months, or three or more per year, are considered recurrent. This can be due to antibiotic resistance, even to antibiotics that have been effective in the past.
How does it work?
D-Mannose is being studied and is showing promising results as an alternative to antibiotics for treating many urinary tract infections. This naturally occurring compound is a simple sugar that our bodies cannot absorb. When ingested, it quickly passes to the kidneys and from there to the urinary tract, where it reaches high concentrations.
The bacterium Escherichia coli, which causes many urinary tract infections, is attracted to this simple sugar. D-Mannose then adheres to the filaments of the E. coli bacteria, preventing it from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. This prevents the infection from spreading, and the bacteria are eliminated through urine.
How is it taken?
We recommend taking D-Mannose supplements between meals with plenty of water. Although D-Mannose is a sugar, it can be consumed by diabetics under normal management.
The preventative dose of D-Mannose Árbol Verde is one capsule daily; the treatment dose is two capsules daily. For other brands, follow the product recommendations.
What else can I do?
Preventing urinary tract infections is always the best option. In addition to a supplement like D-Mannose, you can make some lifestyle changes to help keep your genital area healthy.
- Wear cotton underwear and clothing that is not too tight. Wash underwear in hot water and/or iron them to eliminate bacteria, fungi, etc.
- Use feminine hygiene products, such as pads and tampons, made of cotton and without perfumes. You can also try a menstrual cup, following the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations to avoid introducing bacteria.
- Use soaps that don't disrupt the pH balance of your intimate areas. We think this one is very good.
This information is for guidance only and should not replace consultation with your doctor. Please consult your doctor before starting to take this or any other supplement.