D-mannose is a simple sugar structurally related to glucose. It is absorbed slowly from the gastrointestinal tract, and then a large proportion of it is excreted into the urine.1
Where is it found?
D-Mannose is in many fruits, including Peaches, apples, oranges, cranberries, and blueberries.
D-Mannose has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 | Urinary tract infections |
 Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. | |
Who is likely to be deficient?
As D-mannose is not an essential nutrient, except in certain rare genetic disorders people produce sufficient amounts to provide for the bodies' needs.
How much is usually taken
Some doctors report that D-mannose might help prevent or treat urinary tract infections caused by E. coli and recommend 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dissolved in water or juice every two to three hours while awake.2
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Test tube studies suggest that consuming large amounts of mannose might lead to birth defects,3 although this is not considered a likely risk in humans consuming mannose from foods and naturally producing their own mannose.4 Nonetheless, until more is known, pregnant women should use supplemental mannose with caution.
References
1. Herman RH. Mannose metabolism I. Am J Clin Nutr 1971;24:488–98 [review].
2. Wright JV, Lenard L. D-Mannose & Bladder Infection:The Natural Alternative to Antibiotics. Auburn, WA: Dragon Art, 2001:17.
3. Freinkel N, Lewis NJ, Akazawa S, Roth SI, Gorman L. The honeybee syndrome: implications of the teratogenicity of mannose in rat-embryo culture. N Engl J Med 1984;310:223–30.
4. Freinkel N, Lewis NJ, Akazawa S, et al. The honeybee syndrome: teratogenic effects of mannose during organogenesis in rat embryo culture. Trans Assoc Am Physicians 1983;96:44–55.
Copyright 2007, Healthnotes, Inc., 1505 S.E. Gideon St., Suite 200, Portland, Oregon 97202, www.Healthnotes.com.
2006-09-07
