To help understand d-mannose and how it might help - please read the information below provided by the manufacturer of Manno-Max*.
Keep it Simple
D-Mannose is a simple sugar. Chemically, it is closely related (a stereoisomer) to glucose. It is a naturally occurring sugar found in cranberry and pineapple juice. When D-Mannose is ingested into the body, most of it is rapidly absorbed through the stomach and upper GI tract before reaching the intestines, emptying into the urine through the kidneys. Only a very small amount of D-Mannose is actually metabolized by the body. What benefit, you might ask, could possible derive from something that the body treats essentially as a waste product?
Enter E. Coli
Escherichia Coli (or E. Coli) is the normal bacterium found in every intestinal tract as part of the natural microflora residing therein. These bacteria are necessary for maintaining a properly functioning intestinal tract, and when out of balance, can have a disruptive effect on overall health, especially immune system function.
The Result – UTI's
These same E. Coli bacteria can wreak havoc when they find their way into the wrong place, namely the urinary tract. In Fact, 80-90% of all bladder infections (bacterial cystitis) can be attributed to E. Coli entering the urinary tract, a problem 50 times more common in women and girls than in men. E. Coli bacteria present in the vagina migrate into the urethra and onward to the bladder, which is why many women end up with a bladder infection every time they have intercourse. The reason E. Coli bacteria present such a persistent problem is that their physio-chemical makeup enables them to stick like glue to the inner walls of the urinary tract and bladder.
D-Mannose to the Rescue
The remarkable thing about D-Mannose is that its chemical structure causes it to adhere to E. Coli bacteria even more tenaciously than E.coli adhere to human cells. Normal urination, therefore, with a sufficient level of D-Mannose present, becomes a simple and effective treatment for the condition. E. Coli cells coated by D-Mannose in the urine become unglued and get flushed right out of the body
Cranberry Juice?
D-Mannose is naturally occurring and is found in cranberry juice. However, the amount in the juice is substantially less than in the 1 tsp. adult dose of D-Mannose, and is substantially less effective. D-Mannose is 10 times more active than the fructose in cranberries when it comes to dislodging the sticking of the E.coli bacteria from the urinary tract.
How is D-Mannose different?
D-Mannose does not kill bacteria, friendly or unfriendly. D-Mannose simply helps to remove misplaced E. coli from inside of the urinary tract by the natural process of urination. The small amount of D-Mannose metabolized by the body and not excreted into the urine is harmless. In fact, it is one of the eight essential glyconutrients which promote optimal cell communication in the body. D-Mannose also tastes good.
D-Mannose…
* has no side effects
* is naturally occurring
* does not kill friendly bacteria
* does not disrupt normal body function
* does not interfere with blood sugar regulation
* is hypo-allergenic
* is dye free
* is preservative free
* is yeast free
How do you take D-Mannose?
For an infection, you will need to take ½ - 1 tsp every 2 hours you are awake for the first 2 days. Do not dilute the dose by mixing the powder in a full glass of water. It should mix with 1-3 ounces of liquid, preferably water, to ensure the dose is concentrated and you are getting all of the Manno-max at the same time. DO NOT MIX WITH CITRUS JUICES.
According to Dr. Jonathan V. Wright, editor of Nutrition and Healing, if the infection is not considerably better within 24 hours, it is probably not caused by E.coli, Streptococcus, or Psuedomonas bacteria, please consult your physician.
VERY IMPORTANT – Take ½ - 1 tsp at least 45-60 minutes before sexual relations and ½ - 1 teaspoon immediately after sexual relations whether or not you are on a regular maintenance dose. Manno-Max d-Mannose can also be used for maintenance and prevention.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug
Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure
or prevent any disease.*