There have been some recent articles about the use of D-mannose to combat kidney stones. While on the surface, some of the research seems plausible, it’s important to dig a little deeper than just the summaries that are hitting the popular media.
D-Mannose is best known for helping fend off E. coli–driven UTIs by blocking the bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Kidney stones form in the kidneys, not the bladder, though it is possible for them to pass into the bladder from the kidneys. There are different kinds of kidney stones (calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, struvite, cystine, uric acid), but they all seem to form when minerals in the urine crystallize—think hard water deposits in a pipe. D-mannose doesn’t dissolve stones. Its purpose is to keep things from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract so that they don’t become issues in the future.
So, what is the real skinny on whether D-Mannose is effective for kidney stones? What we know is that UTIs and stones can chase each other in circles: stones can invite infections, and infections can set the stage for stones. If you’re prone to E. coli UTIs, using D-mannose as part of a prevention plan may reduce UTI recurrence, which indirectly helps keep the urinary tract calmer. That’s called playing good defense. As the Dallas Cowboys have proven, it is hard to win if you have a strong offense, but no defense. Fortunately, our Urinary Defense supplement is designed to play on both sides of the ball. We designed Utmost Nutrients Urinary Defense so that E. coli already stuck in the urinary tract can be dislodged and flushed, while strengthening your defense mechanism to prevent future occurrences.
In conclusion, lots of clean water, a healthy diet, Urinary Defense supplements and the advice of your doctor will go a long way toward keeping your urinary tract healthy.