Cranberry/Mannose Caps

Cranberries are often cited as a natural remedy for preventing and treating urinary tract infections (UTIs), including bladder infections. Here's how cranberries are thought to help treat bladder infections:

1. Preventing bacterial adhesion: Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which interfere with the ability of certain bacteria, particularly E. coli, to adhere to the walls of the urinary tract, including the bladder. These compounds prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract lining, making it more difficult for them to cause an infection.

2. Antibacterial properties: Cranberries contain other compounds, such as organic acids and flavonoids, which have been shown to have antibacterial properties. These compounds may help to directly inhibit the growth and spread of bacteria in the urinary tract, including E. coli.

3. Acidification of urine: Cranberries contain certain acids, such as hippuric acid, which can acidify the urine. Acidic urine can create an environment that is less favorable for the growth and proliferation of bacteria, including the bacteria that cause bladder infections. This can help to reduce the risk of developing an infection or aid in the treatment of an existing infection.

4. Anti-inflammatory effects: Some research suggests that certain compounds found in cranberries may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with bladder infections. By reducing inflammation, cranberries may help to alleviate symptoms such as pain and burning during urination.

5. Promotion of urinary tract health: Regular consumption of cranberries, whether in the form of juice, capsules, or fresh fruit, may help to support overall urinary tract health.

Mannose is a simple sugar that naturally occurs in certain fruits, including cranberries, and is also available in supplement form. It's believed to help prevent bladder infections, particularly those caused by E. coli bacteria, which are responsible for the majority of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Here's how mannose works to prevent bladder infections:

1. Blocking bacterial adhesion: E. coli bacteria have tiny hair-like structures called fimbriae that allow them to adhere to the lining of the urinary tract, including the bladder. Mannose works by binding to these fimbriae instead of allowing them to bind to the bladder walls. When mannose molecules are present in the urine, E. coli bacteria are more likely to bind to mannose molecules instead of the bladder wall. This prevents the bacteria from establishing an infection and allows them to be flushed out of the body during urination.

2. Promoting bacterial expulsion: Once mannose binds to E. coli bacteria, it facilitates their expulsion from the body through urination. By preventing these bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls, mannose helps to reduce the likelihood of an infection taking hold and allows the body's natural defense mechanisms to eliminate the bacteria more effectively.

3. Supporting urinary tract health: In addition to its anti-adhesive properties, mannose may also help to support overall urinary tract health.