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Can D-Mannose Help Fight Bladder Infections?

Can D-Mannose Help Fight Bladder Infections?

Darrell Miller

11/03/12

Date: November 03, 2012 11:48 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can D-Mannose Help Fight Bladder Infections?

D-Mannose

Mannose is a naturally occuring sugar found in cranberries, blueberries, and apples. It works by keeping bacteria in urinary area from adhering to the walls of the bladder. In supplement form (D-mannose) is used for treatment of bladder infections. It is absorbed much slower than other sugars. It travels directly to the bloodstream from the upper gastrointestinal tract ridding the body of E. coli. which is known to stick to the bladder and urinary areas. It is considered a safe alternative to antibiotics and can be used by children and adults (including pregnant women, the elderly and diabetic patients).

Symptoms of a bladder infection include foul smelling urine and frequent and/or burning sensation during urination. If any of these symptoms occur, it is a good time to begin taking a D-mannose supplement.

The recommended dose of D-mannose in supplement form is 500mg in capsule form or one teaspoon of powder mixed in a glass of water or juice. The dosage should be repeated approximately every three hours over a five day period. Urinary tract and bladder infections caused by E. coli. that are treated with D-mannose are generally gone in as little as 48 hours. However, it is advised to continue to do the full five day treatment to be sure the infection is eliminated. The advantage of taking the supplement over drinking cranberry or other juices containing mannose is avoiding the fructose often causes health problems and weight gain.

It is strongly advised to see a physician if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of taking D-mannose. This is because it is likely the symptoms are not cause by E. coli. and require medical treatment.

D-mannose along with other preventative measures such as drinking plenty of fluids (especially water), emptying the bladder frequently, and wearing cotton underwear (allows ventilation) are all key components in avoiding future bladder infections.