D-Mannose Power Complex is a high-strength D-mannose (900mg per serving) supplement, enriched with cranberry (2160mg), Lactobacillus acidophilus (2 billion CFU), zinc, cinnamon, oregano and bamboo leaf - all in one convenient and easy to take capsule.
It has been specially formulated to provide the optimal mix of D-mannose and cranberry extract to offer long-term support for urinary tract health.
We have also added zinc as it contributes to the normal function of the immune system and the protection of cells against oxidative stress, as well as tried and tested botanicals and probiotics that have long been used to support a healthy gut and urinary tract environment.
The D-mannose and cranberry
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most prevalent bacterial diseases worldwide, especially in women (and even more so after the menopause). Although they can, of course, affect anyone.
Despite the efficacy of antibiotics targeted against UTIs, the recurrence rates remain significant and the development of antibiotic resistance (and other side-effects associated with regular antibiotic use) is a major concern and creates a demand for alternative treatment options.
D-mannose, a monosaccharide naturally found in certain plants and fruits (including cranberries and pineapples), is widely used as a dietary supplement for reducing the risk for UTIs.
Research suggests that supplemented D-mannose offers effective alternative / complementary support, especially for recurrent UTIs.
Although a natural sugar, D-mannose is not metabolised by humans and, on ingestion, passes immediately through to the kidneys and urine. It therefore does not interfere with blood sugar regulation, because it is non-glycaemic in humans.
Most urinary tract infections are caused by E. coli bacteria. This supplement contains D-mannose and cranberry, which research has demonstrated work well together to prevent adhesion and replication of bacteria.
D-mannose readily binds to pathogens to prevent adhesion and replication, and aids removal via urine.
Cranberry has a similar action to D-mannose and cranberry juice has a long history of use, however cranberry juice is high in sugar. Use of the extract in supplement form avoids this issue.
The botanicals
Ceylon cinnamon
Cinnamon has long been used for its antibacterial properties. It is rich in compounds that help to reduce inflammation and hamper the growth of bacteria and other pathogens.
Studies have shown that cinnamon's naturally potent antimicrobial actions can offer support against UTIs, by preventing bacteria from coating the urinary tract. As an anti-inflammatory agent, it can also help to ease some of the discomfort associated with UTIs.
Oregano leaf
Essential oils of oregano are widely recognised for their antimicrobial activity, as well as their antiviral and antifungal properties. In particular in a UTI context, oregano oil has been shown to be effective against stationary E.coli bacteria in test tube research.
Bamboo leaf (providing silica)
Bamboo leaf extracts have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Bamboo is also naturally rich in silica. Silica is found in compounds called glycosaminoglycans, components of structural tissues like arteries, tendons, skin, bones and cartilage. Given these properties, silica supplements have become popular for healthy skin and mobility.
The probiotics
Urinary microbiota have a significant role to play in the prevalence and recurrence of UTIs, especially in women.
Overall, in contrast to the gut, urine contains very few microbes and is dominated by one or two species. Research suggests that the urinary microbiota is gender specific, likely due to anatomical and hormonal differences, with women being at greater risk for UTIs.
The most common bacteria in the urinary microbiota of healthy women are the same species of Lactobacillus that exists in the vagina. Other predominating species are from the genera Gardnerella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Escherichia.
Research suggests that urotype changes with age and for instance a Lactobacillus- or Gardnerella-dominated urotype is in some cases reported to be more common in pre-menopausal women, whereas the Escherichia-dominated urotype and more diverse microbiota seem to predominate in postmenopausal women.
Urinary microbiota is associated with recurrent UTIs. Changes resulting in the loss of the normally protective Lactobacillus species seem to especially increase the risk of UTIs.
The vaginal tract is suggested to play a role in UTI pathogenesis by serving as a potential reservoir for uropathogenic bacteria ascending from the gastrointestinal tract. Studies show that women with recurrent UTIs have lower levels of Lactobacilli and are more commonly colonised with vaginal E. coli. Indigenous vaginal lactobacilli produce H2O2 and lactic acid, which contributes to lowering vaginal pH which in turn inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as E. coli, and may ultimately reduce the risk of such organisms colonising the urinary tract.
We have used Lactobacillus acidophilus (2 billion CFU), a probiotic strain that therefore offers ideal support for microbiome flora and natural pH levels throughout the intimate area.
Approved EFSA health claims:
Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis, normal acid-base metabolism, normal carbohydrate metabolism, normal cognitive function, normal fertility and reproduction, normal macronutrient metabolism, normal metabolism of fatty acids, normal metabolism of vitamin A, normal protein synthesis, the maintenance of normal bones, the maintenance of normal hair, nails and skin, the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood, the maintenance of normal vision, the normal function of the immune system, the protection of cells from oxidative stress and it has a role in the process of cell division.
