Why do people take D-mannose?　　

D-mannose is used to treat a rare disease called carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome type 1b.

This disease is passed down through families. It makes you lose protein through the intestines. Some reports say D-mannose slows down this protein loss and makes your liver work better. It may also reduce bleeding disorders and low blood sugar in people with this disease.

Preliminary clinical trails in Europe show that D-mannose may also treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Research suggests the supplementstops certain bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls. Scientists think that the bacteria stick to the sugar instead. This helps the bacteria leave the body through your urine. Fewer bacteria in the bladder lowers your risk of a urinary tract infection.  

Some studies suggest D-mannose may play a useful role as a "prebiotic." Prebiotics are substances that may help your body by stimulating the growth of "good" bacteria in your digestive system.

In some lab studies and studies in mice, D-mannose components were shown to increase the growth of "good" bacteria. This suggests D-mannose may have some use for people with dysbiosis, an imbalance in good and bad bacteria.

D-mannose supplements are taken by mouth.