Every year millions of people (mostly women) suffer with urinary tract infections (UTIs). Nearly 90% of these infections are caused by the bacteria E. coli (which is actually considered a "good" bacteria when it remains in the gastrointestinal tract where it belongs). Problems occur when E. coli leaves the GI tract and finds its way up the urethra and into the bladder, where it multiplies and spreads. Once the infection takes hold, uncomfortable symptoms usually follow. These may include:

A frequent urge to urinate

Painful urination (a "burning" sensation)

Strong, unpleasant urine odor

Cloudy urine

Uncomfortable pressure in the lower abdomen

Most patients diagnosed with a UTI are prescribed a course of antibiotics, which can wreak havoc on the body in several ways. Antibiotics kill the "friendly" bacteria in the GI tract, which may result in diarrhea, nausea, and/or constipation. These friendly bacteria also prevent the overgrowth of yeast, so when they are killed off, a vaginal yeast infection often results (requiring yet another medication to "cure"). And one more thing to consider: the overuse of antibiotics can encourage the mutation of bacteria, creating antibiotic-resistant strains.

The good news is that you may never need an antibiotic for a UTI again. There is an all-natural product available which may prove just as effective as an antibiotic, without any side effects whatsoever. It is inexpensive, easy to use, and does not require a doctor's prescription. This little-known cure is a simple sugar called "D-mannose".

D-mannose occurs naturally in many plants, including cranberries, blueberries, peaches, oranges, and apples. As a supplement, it can be purchased in powder form, which dissolves easily in water or juice and has a pleasant taste. It is so safe that it can be used by pregnant women and children, and it is even considered safe for diabetics, as it doesn't interfere with blood sugar regulation.

D-mannose does not kill any bacteria - friendly or unfriendly. It serves as a kind of magnet in the urinary tract, attracting any present E. coli bacteria and keeping it from attaching to the bladder lining (and dislodging any bacteria which are already attached). The bacteria cling to the D-mannose molecules, and are flushed out with the normal urine flow. The recommended dosage for an ongoing infection is one teaspoon of D-mannose dissolved in liquid every few hours, continued for three days. The curative effects of D-mannose are usually felt within 24 hours - if no change is noticed within 72 hours, a physician should be consulted (it may be that the infection is caused by a bacteria other than E. coli).

The powder may also be used as a preventative measure, for those who suffer from recurring infections. The maintenance dose varies per person, but a good starting point is one teaspoon per day mixed with liquid. For those women who suffer from "honeymoon cystitis" (bladder infections linked to sexual intercourse), one teaspoon of D-mannose an hour before intercourse, and another immediately after, can help prevent infection.

D-mannose is still relatively unknown, especially in the conventional medical community. There have been many research reports over the years which demonstrate the safety of D-mannose, and its effectiveness against the bacteria E. coli - but the FDA has not approved it as a medical treatment. This is largely because as a naturally-occurring sugar, it is not able to be patented - which means the large drug companies have no incentive to spend the millions of dollars it would take to do the large-scale controlled study which would be required for FDA approval.

D-mannose is starting to become more available at health food stores, but it is still not common to find it there. Currently, the easiest place to find it is on the Internet - there are several different companies who market it, and it can be purchased at many online supplement stores. (A simple keyword search will bring up many choices - it is worth looking around a bit for the best price.)

If you are one of those who struggle with frequent UTIs, D-mannose can make a real difference in your life. This extremely safe, all-natural powder may enable you to treat your own infections without the expense of a doctor's visit and the side effects of prescription drugs. And used as a preventative, it can help you avoid the pain and discomfort of an infection altogether.