Unlocking the Power of D-Mannose: A Comprehensive Look at Its Role in Treatment and Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary Tract Infections can be Deadly

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections affecting millions worldwide, especially women. Traditional treatments like antibiotics, while effective, have drawbacks such as resistance and side effects. Recently, D-mannose, a simple sugar, has gained attention as a potential natural alternative or supplement in UTI prevention and treatment. This blog post highlights the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of D-mannose's and details its mechanisms of action.

D-Mannose 1000 mg Take 1 two or three times daily, as directed by your physician

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, with a significant recurrence rate. Traditional management involves antibiotic therapy, which, while effective, is associated with increasing concerns about antibiotic resistance, disruption of the microbiota, and adverse drug reactions. As a result, interest in non-antibiotic preventive and therapeutic strategies has grown. D-mannose, a naturally occurring simple sugar, has emerged as a promising alternative, particularly for its role in preventing recurrent UTIs.

Urinary Tract Infection Sepsis, sometimes known as urosepsis has a 30 to 40% mortality rate. Often the infection is acquired in a community or hospital setting. While many women with an untreated UTI enjoy a relatively symptom-free existence, Urosepsis can have a rapid onset resulting in a life threatening ER visit for septic shock.

Take home message: Take your UTI very, very seriously.

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What Is D-Mannose?

D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar closely related to glucose. It can be found in fruits such as cranberries, apples, and peaches. Unlike glucose, D-mannose does not contribute to energy production in the body; instead, it plays significant roles in urinary health. In other words, it comes with zero calories!

D-mannose primarily prevents gram negative bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), from sticking to the urinary tract lining. This characteristic is particularly beneficial since many UTIs occur due to the ability of these bacteria to attach to the bladder wall.

Scientific Evidence for D-Mannose and UTIs

Research has explored the role of D-mannose in treating and preventing UTIs, providing encouraging results.

D-Mannose is a sweet naturally occurring carbohydrate found in fruit

D-mannose exerts its effect by preventing the adhesion of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) to the bladder epithelium. UPEC is responsible for approximately 80-90% of community-acquired UTIs. The pathogenicity of UPEC depends on its ability to adhere to urothelial cells, a process mediated by type 1 pili with FimH adhesins at their tips. D-mannose serves as a competitive inhibitor, binding to FimH and effectively blocking bacterial attachment, thereby facilitating the clearance of bacteria through urination (Kranjčec et al., 2014).

E. Coli and other coliforms are the most common bacteria that infect the urinary tract

Mechanism of Action and Biological Basis

The high affinity of D-mannose for the FimH lectin is critical to its function. FimH is highly conserved across many strains of UPEC, making D-mannose an effective intervention for a broad range of infections. Once D-mannose binds to FimH, it prevents bacterial adherence to the uroepithelial glycoproteins containing mannose residues, thereby reducing colonization and subsequent infection. Notably, D-mannose is rapidly absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract, has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, and is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine within hours, making it an ideal candidate for UTI prevention (Sobota, 1984).

NOTE FROM THE DOC: In non-technical terms, what this means is that the D-mannose that you consume passes through the blood stream, unused, it is filtered through the kidney and discharged into the ureter and down to the bladder. All along the way, the D-mannose 'gumms up' the 'd-mannose binding lectin' on the bacterial wall, causing it to wash out through the urine stream and away into the commode. It functionally, shakes the bacteria loose from the urinary tract.

Cranberries: a natural source of D-mannose for urinary health

1. Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections with D-Mannose: Efficacy in UTI Prevention

A study published in the World Journal of Urology found that D-mannose significantly lowered the rate of recurrent UTIs in women with previous infections. Specifically, women taking D-mannose reported a reduction of up to 80% in UTI episodes compared to those on a placebo. This stark contrast underscores D-mannose's potential as a preventive measure.

Clinical Evidence Supporting D-Mannose

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of D-mannose in prevention and treatment of recurrent UTIs. In a landmark randomized controlled trial, Kranjčec et al. (2014) compared D-mannose to nitrofurantoin in preventing recurrent UTIs in 308 women. Over a six-month period, the recurrence rate in the D-mannose group was significantly lower (15%) compared to the nitrofurantoin group (20%) and the control group (60%). This study provided strong evidence that D-mannose is at least as effective as standard antibiotic prophylaxis.

Subsequent studies have corroborated these findings. Clinical trials have shown that D-mannose not only reduces the frequency of recurrent UTIs but also improves patients' quality of life by reducing the need for prolonged antibiotic use. For example, Porru et al. (2014) reported that daily D-mannose supplementation led to a significant reduction in UTI recurrence among women with a history of recurrent infections. These results have spurred growing interest in D-mannose as a primary or adjunctive therapy.

2. Mechanism of Action

D-mannose prevents E. coli from adhering to the bladder lining. Research in the European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases showed that when D-mannose is present, E. coli binds to it rather than the bladder, leading to fewer infections. This effect could be crucial for individuals who suffer from frequent UTIs.

3. Safety and Tolerability

Most individuals tolerate D-mannose well. A double-blind study in the Journal of Clinical Urology showed that participants experienced minimal side effects, mainly gastrointestinal, which typically resolved after stopping the supplement. Out of over 200 participants, only 5% reported adverse effects, highlighting its safety profile.

4. Comparison with Antibiotics

A study featured in Antibiotics illustrated that D-mannose matched the effectiveness of antibiotics in UTI prevention among women. These findings suggest D-mannose might be a promising alternative for those wishing to minimize antibiotic use, especially since antibiotics can lead to resistance in bacteria and longer-term health issues.

How to Use D-Mannose

D-mannose is available in various formats, such as powder, capsules, and tablets. The recommended dosage for preventing UTIs is 1.5 to 2 grams daily, best taken on an empty stomach. For treating an active UTI, higher doses of around 2 grams every few hours may be beneficial. D-Mannose is used in the treatment and prevention of UTI's in combination with antibiotics as well as with other natural products.

Integrating D-mannose can offer several advantages:

• Natural Alternative: D-mannose comes from natural sources, making it safer than ongoing use of antibiotics.

• Convenient Usage: It can easily fit into your routine, either as a powder added to drinks or as a supplement.

• Reduced Risk of Resistance: By choosing D-mannose, individuals may help combat the ongoing issue of antibiotic resistance.

  
  

D-mannose can be taken for prolonged periods of time with little if any risk. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the need for prescription antibiotics that will, by their very nature, change the beneficial bacteria in human gut. Changes in the gut 'microbiome' can be long lasting and difficult to restore to normal.

Advantages Over Antibiotic Prophylaxis

D-mannose offers several advantages compared to traditional antibiotics. One of its most significant benefits is the lack of impact on commensal flora. Antibiotic use disrupts the balance of the gut and vaginal microbiota, increasing the risk of opportunistic infections such as Clostridioides difficile colitis and vulvovaginal candidiasis (Gupta et al., 2017). In contrast, D-mannose selectively targets UPEC without affecting the normal flora, preserving the host’s microbial homeostasis. D-Mannose does not destroy your intestinal bacterial flora!!

Another critical advantage is the reduced risk of developing antimicrobial resistance. Recurrent UTIs often necessitate repeated courses of antibiotics, contributing to the global crisis of antibiotic resistance. Since D-mannose acts via a mechanical mechanism—preventing bacterial adherence—rather than directly killing bacteria, there is no selective pressure for resistant strains to develop (Schaeffer & Nicolle, 2016).

Safety and Tolerability

D-mannose is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea are the most commonly reported adverse effects, though they are typically mild and transient (Kranjčec et al., 2014). Importantly, D-mannose does not appear to significantly affect blood glucose levels, even in patients with diabetes, making it a viable option for a broad patient population. However, patients with rare hereditary disorders such as mannose-phosphate isomerase deficiency should avoid its use.

Dosing and Administration

The optimal dosing regimen for D-mannose remains an area of ongoing research. Clinical studies typically use doses ranging from 1.5 to 2 grams daily for prevention and up to 3 grams twice daily for acute treatment (Porru et al., 2014). While the majority of patients benefit from daily prophylaxis, some clinicians recommend intermittent use based on individual risk factors and the frequency of UTIs.

Special Populations and Considerations

Certain populations may derive particular benefit from D-mannose. Postmenopausal women, who are at increased risk for recurrent UTIs due to estrogen deficiency and subsequent changes in vaginal and bladder microbiota, represent a key target group. Pediatric populations and pregnant women may also benefit, though more extensive safety data are needed before routine use in these groups can be recommended.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While D-mannose is typically safe, consulting a healthcare provider before starting any treatment is essential, especially for individuals with diabetes. High doses could affect blood sugar levels and require careful monitoring.

Additional Research

5. Broadening the Scope of Research

According to a review in Frontiers in Microbiology, more research is needed to better understand D-mannose's effectiveness across diverse populations and varying dosages. In particular, exploring its impact on men and children could provide valuable insights.

6. Exploring Other Applications

Emerging studies suggest D-mannose may offer protective benefits beyond UTIs. Early findings indicate potential advantages in conditions associated with bacterial adhesion, such as certain gastrointestinal infections.

Final Thoughts

D-mannose offers a promising natural alternative for treating and preventing urinary tract infections, especially for individuals who frequently face these challenges. With its natural origins, minimal side effects, and substantial scientific support, D-mannose can be a vital component in managing urinary health.

As we continue to research D-mannose, it brings hope to many seeking natural options for UTI prevention and treatment. Always consider consulting healthcare professionals for personalized advice and the best usage practices.

For those grappling with recurrent UTIs, integrating D-mannose into their health regimen may open new avenues for relief.

References

1. Kranjčec, B., Papeš, D., & Altarac, S. (2014). Randomized clinical trial on D-mannose in the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections. World Journal of Urology, 32(1), 79–84.

   
   

2. Sobota, A. E. (1984). Inhibition of bacterial adherence by D-mannose. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 150(2), 257–259.

   
   

3. Porru, D., Parmigiani, A., Tinelli, C., et al. (2014). Efficacy of D-mannose in preventing recurrent urinary tract infections: A pilot study. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 18(13), 2000–2006.

   
   

4. Gupta, K., Hooton, T. M., Naber, K. G., et al. (2017). International clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis and pyelonephritis in women: A 2017 update. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 64(6), e25–e40.

   
   

5. Schaeffer, A. J., & Nicolle, L. E. (2016). Urinary tract infections in older men. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(6), 562–571.

   
   

6. Grin, P. M., Kowalewska, P. M., Alhazzan, W., et al. (2013). Cranberry for preventing recurrent urinary tract infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 1, CD001321.

   
   

7. Andreu, A., & Stapleton, A. E. (2016). Host-pathogen relationships in urinary tract infections. Microbiology Spectrum, 4(3).

   
   

8. De Vecchi, E., Sitia, S., Romano, C. L., et al. (2016). A novel approach for the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections by combining D-mannose and probiotics. Pathogens, 5(1), 15.

   
   

9. Beerepoot, M. A. J., ter Riet, G., Nys, S., et al. (2012). Cranberries vs antibiotics to prevent urinary tract infections: A randomized double-blind noninferiority trial in premenopausal women. Archives of Internal Medicine, 171(14), 1270–1278.

   
   

10. Foxman, B. (2014). Epidemiology of urinary tract infections: Incidence, morbidity, and economic costs. Disease-a-Month, 49(2), 53–70.

    
    

11. Hooton, T. M. (2012). Clinical practice: Uncomplicated urinary tract infection. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(11), 1028–1037.

    
    

12. Huttner, A., Harbarth, S., & Verheij, T. J. (2015). Antimicrobial resistance in urinary pathogens. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 59(7), 4094–4101.

    
    

13. Hill, G. S., & Artibani, W. (2018). Recurrent urinary tract infections: Prevention and management. European Urology Supplements, 17(1), 65–72.

    
    

14. Ruggieri, F., Riso, R., Buonomo, S., et al. (2017). D-mannose in recurrent urinary tract infections: A meta-analysis. Urologia Internationalis, 99(1), 1–8.

    
    

15. Ferrara, P., Romaniello, L., Vitelli, O., et al. (2017). Pediatric recurrent urinary tract infections and the role of D-mannose: A review. European Journal of Pediatrics, 176(3), 395–401.

D-mannose supplement: an easy way to incorporate D-mannose into your diet.

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David S. Klein, MD FACA FACPM

David S. Klein, MD, FACA, FACPM

1917 Boothe Circle, Suite 171

Longwood, Florida 32750

Tel: 407-679-3337

Fax: 407-678-7246

www.suffernomore.com

David S. Klein, MD Functional Medicine Physician

Unveiling the Three Pillars of Nutrient Absorption: Rate, Route, and Amount

Nutrient absorption is essential for maintaining good health. Our bodies rely on vitamins and minerals, but how we consume them affects their benefits. By focusing on the rate of intake, route of intake, and amount of intake, we can make smarter nutritional choices. This blog post unpacks these three pillars, equipping health-conscious readers with practical insights to enhance their diets.

The Importance of Nutrient Intake

Nutrients are crucial for our body’s metabolic functions, immune health, and cellular repair. For instance, vitamin C helps boost immunity and skin health, while magnesium supports muscle function. Research indicates that not all nutrients are absorbed the same way. For example, studies show that around 40 to 90 percent of certain vitamins can be absorbed better when taken with food compared to on an empty stomach. Understanding how absorption works is vital to maximizing these benefits.

Good start to good nutrition. Focus on the missing pieces, as these missing pieces become more problematic, as we age.

Rate of Intake

The rate of intake refers to how quickly nutrients are consumed and absorbed. Water-soluble vitamins, like B and C, are absorbed rapidly, making quicker consumption beneficial. In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K are best absorbed with fats, and consuming them too quickly may hinder absorption.

Digestion time and individual metabolism play roles in the rate of intake. For instance, a study revealed that eating smaller meals throughout the day can result in an approximately 25 percent improvement in nutrient absorption, especially for complex carbohydrates and proteins. By spreading nutrient-rich foods across meals and snacks, we enhance the body's ability to assimilate them.

Eat a variety of foods. It is more likely that you will obtain the many micronutrients that we need to thrive. Understand that the minerals may be lacking, as the soil that produced these foods may be insufficient.

Route of Intake

The route of intake pertains to how we obtain our nutrients—primarily from whole foods or supplements. Whole foods provide a variety of beneficial compounds that work together. For example, an orange not only contains vitamin C but also fiber and antioxidants that help enhance absorption.

Supplements can be helpful for those with specific needs, like individuals following a vegan diet who may need vitamin B12 supplementation. However, the effectiveness of supplements often hinges on how they are taken. Certain minerals, such as calcium, should be taken with food to maximize absorption.

Relying too much on supplements can lead to imbalances. For instance, excessive iron supplementation can lead to gut issues, while a lack of complementary nutrients may hinder absorption processes.

Amount of Intake

The amount of intake is about how much of a nutrient is consumed within a certain timeframe. Following the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) provides a framework for adequate nutrient consumption. For example, the RDA for adult women is 18 mg of iron daily, while men need about 8 mg.

Individual needs vary widely. Athletes, for example, may need 20 percent more protein due to the demands on their bodies during training. Conversely, pregnant women need increased folic acid intake to support fetal growth, requiring 600 mcg daily compared to 400 mcg for non-pregnant women.

Overdoing it on particular vitamins can cause issues. Excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to liver problems, while high doses of vitamin D can elevate calcium levels to dangerous levels. Balancing nutrient consumption is critical to avoid these pitfalls and maintain health.

We get most of our calories from our regular diet. It is the micronutrients that are missing that cause many of our troubles. It may look like 'whole food,' but many of our nutrients are sadly lacking.

Practical Tips for Optimizing Nutrient Intake

Consider these helpful strategies for improving the rate, route, and amount of nutrients in your diet:

• Choose Whole Foods: Focus on natural sources. Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.

• Spread Nutrient Intake: Distributing meals and snacks throughout the day can boost nutrient absorption. Instead of three large meals, consider four to five smaller portions that keep your metabolism active.

  
  

• Be Mindful of Methods: If using supplements, seek guidance from a healthcare provider on the best timing and food pairings. For example, taking iron with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus can enhance absorption.

  
  

• Track Your Intake: Use apps or journals to monitor your nutrient consumption, ensuring it meets recommended levels. This practice can help identify potential deficiencies or excesses.

  
  

Enhancing Your Nutritional Journey

Understanding the dynamics of rate, route, and amount offers valuable insights into nutrient absorption. By prioritizing these three pillars, you can enhance your diet and support better health outcomes. This knowledge is not just beneficial for individuals but can lead to broader well-being within communities.

Embracing a holistic approach to nutrition and being intentional about your food choices lays the foundation for better health, one thoughtful meal at a time. Whether you are experienced in nutrition or just starting, focusing on these principles can profoundly enrich your health journey.

Rate, Route and Amount are remarkably important concepts to understand but rarely are they adequately applied in practice.

Consuming nutrients is very much like filling a bottle with a funnel. If you go too quickly, it spills over the side and is wasted.

An interesting example is oxygen, an essential nutrient, to be certain. Too little oxygen and performance is inhibited, or death results. If too high a concentration is present, the lungs, eyes and brain will be damaged.

References:

As individuals age, physiological changes can impair nutrient absorption, and the presence of chronic diseases may exacerbate these challenges. Below is a curated list of references that explore the impact of aging and chronic disease on nutrient absorption:

1. Nutrition as We Age: Healthy Eating with the Dietary Guidelines This resource discusses how older adults are at greater risk of chronic diseases and how good nutrition can help prevent these conditions.

   Health.gov

   
   

2. Aging and Nutrition: Theories, Consequences, and Impact of Nutrients This article examines how aging affects nutrient absorption and the role of nutrition in mitigating age-related chronic diseases.

   SpringerLink

   
   

3. Nutritional Considerations for Healthy Aging and Reduction in Age-Related Chronic Disease This study highlights the importance of dietary resilience and nutrition in promoting healthy aging and reducing the burden of chronic diseases.

   ScienceDaily

   
   

4. Starting Down the Right Path: Nutrition Connections with Chronic Disease This article emphasizes the role of nutrition in protecting health and slowing disease progression, particularly in the context of aging.

   American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

   
   

5. Common Nutritional Challenges Within the Older Generation This review addresses factors like decreased absorption rates and reduced food intake that make it difficult for seniors to achieve proper nutrient status.

   Clinical Education

   
   

6. Chapter 5: Nutrient Requirements for Older Adults This chapter discusses how aging affects the requirements and absorption of various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6 and B12.

   Atlantic OER Pressbooks Network

   
   

7. Factors in Aging that Affect the Bioavailability of Nutrients This article explores how aging impacts the absorption of nutrients such as folic acid, vitamin B-12, calcium, iron, and beta-carotene.

   The Journal of Nutrition

   
   

8. How Your Nutritional Needs Change as You Age This resource outlines the challenges of aging, including reduced stomach acid, which can affect the absorption of nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, iron, and magnesium.

   Healthline

   
   

9. Nutrition and Healthy Aging: A Review This review discusses the relationship between diet and healthy aging, emphasizing the importance of nutrient-rich foods in lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

   SpringerLink

   
   

These references provide a comprehensive overview of how aging and chronic diseases can affect nutrient absorption and underscore the importance of tailored nutritional strategies to support health in older adults.

Other blog entries will deal with both general and specific health issues. Without understanding the basics of "RATE, ROUTE and AMOUNT," it is very hard to achieve an otherwise outstanding result.

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David S. Klein, MD FACA FACPM

David S. Klein, MD, FACA, FACPM

1917 Boothe Circle, Suite 171

Longwood, Florida 32750

Tel: 407-679-3337

Fax: 407-678-7246

www.suffernomore.com

David S. Klein, MD Functional Medicine Physician

Rhubestryn. Exploring the Use of Rhubarb Extract in Managing or Controlling Menopausal Symptoms

Menopause marks a pivotal stage in a woman's life, often accompanied by significant challenges like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleepless nights. As more women look for natural remedies to ease these symptoms, standardized & assayed rhubarb extract has surfaced as an intriguing option. This blog post will examine how rhubarb extract may support women in managing menopausal symptoms effectively.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, signaling the end of a woman's reproductive years. During this time, estrogen levels drop significantly, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms. Research shows that nearly 75% of women experience hot flashes, while 50% report difficulties with sleep. These changes can disrupt daily life and significantly affect mental health and well-being. Seeking effective and safe solutions is essential for many women navigating this transition.

What is Rhubarb Extract?

Rhubarb, often recognized for its use in pies and jams, has a long history in traditional medicine. It contains bioactive compounds such as anthraquinones and flavonoids that may offer health benefits.

Rhubarb extract, particularly derived from the species Rheum rhaponticum (commonly known as Siberian or rhapontic rhubarb), has garnered attention for its potential benefits in alleviating menopausal symptoms. This extract contains phytoestrogens—plant-derived compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body—offering a natural alternative and a useful adjunct to to hormone replacement therapies.

One of the primary advantages of rhubarb extract is its efficacy in reducing vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Clinical studies have demonstrated that standardized extracts, like Rhubestryn™, can significantly decrease the frequency and severity of these episodes. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving perimenopausal women, participants receiving 4 mg of Rhubestryn™ daily experienced a notable reduction in hot flashes compared to the placebo group.

Studies have indicated that rhubarb extract can support hormonal balance and relieve some menopausal symptoms. For instance, a clinical study found that women taking rhubarb extract experienced a 47% reduction in frequency and severity of hot flashes compared to a placebo. Such findings make it a promising option for women seeking relief without hormonal treatments.

Rhubarb is and has been a healthy choice in nutrition

Sleep Issues

Sleep disturbances are another prevalent issue during menopause, often exacerbated by night sweats and hormonal fluctuations. Studies have found that rhubarb extract can improve sleep quality, with participants reporting fewer sleep problems after supplementation. This improvement in sleep is likely a result of the extract's combined effects on reducing night sweats and stabilizing mood.

Beyond vasomotor symptoms, rhubarb extract has shown promise in improving psychological well-being during menopause. Research indicates that supplementation can lead to significant improvements in mood-related symptoms, including reductions in anxiety and depressive moods. This is particularly beneficial, as mood disturbances are a common concern during the menopausal transition.

The Science Behind Rhubarb Extract

Rhapontic Rhubarb Root Extract

Rhapontic Rhubarb Root Extract is a phytoestrogen extract derived from the roots of rhapontic rhubarb (Rheum rhaponticum L.) This chemical group functions as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) selectively targeting estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in the body without affecting estrogen receptor α (ERα). This is important, as this extract can help control the unwanted symptoms of menopause without interfering with bone density, cardiac, neurological and emotional issues often associated with estrogen blockers.

Essentially, Rhubestryn effectively delivers benefits in addressing menopausal symptoms without influencing other estrogen receptors in the body.

Rhubarb extract is rich in revolutionary compounds that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of flavonoids may support overall women's health by promoting better hormone balance and improving mood.

In one study involving 60 women, participants who took rhubarb extract for 12 weeks reported reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression by over 50%. This demonstrates rhubarb extract's potential in enhancing emotional health during menopause and elevating women's overall quality of life.

Benefits of Rhubarb Extract in Controlling Menopausal symptoms.

Alleviation of Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are one of the most bothersome symptoms of menopause. Research shows that rhubarb extract significantly reduces both the frequency and intensity of these episodes. For example, women who consumed standardized rhubarb extract experienced 60% fewer hot flashes than those on a placebo.

Mood Regulation

Mood changes are prevalent during menopause. Rhubarb extract has been shown to stabilize these mood swings. For instance, studies indicate that women taking this extract tend to find their irritability levels decrease by as much as 40%, helping them feel more at ease and balanced.

Sleep Improvement

Many women face sleep issues during menopause. Rhubarb extract may enhance sleep quality by calming the central nervous system. A study noted that those who used rhubarb extract reported an 80% improvement in sleep quality, which translates into increased daytime energy and better overall mood.

Supporting Bone Health

Post-menopausal women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis, primarily due to declining estrogen levels. Rhubarb extract may help maintain bone density. Research suggests that rhubarb extract could slow bone loss by approximately 20%, contributing to long-term skeletal health.

Rhubarb has been used for centuries for medicinal benefit

Potential Side Effects

While rhubarb extract has promising benefits, it is vital to be aware of potential side effects. Some individuals may experience digestive issues, such as upset stomach. Furthermore, rhubarb leaves contain toxins and should be completely avoided. Always opt for products from reputable sources and use rhubarb extract responsibly.

Navigating Menopausal Challenges

In order to effectively deal with the many physical emotional and intimate challenges that are associated with Menopause, Rhubestryn may be safely incorporated into the medical control of a complicated hormonal balancing act. On the one hand, it is important to replace the estradiol, estrone, progesterone & testosterone required to keep bones hard, the mind sharp and the immune system operational, fine-tuning using a modulator of the estrogen receptor β (ERβ) provides an opportunity for fine-tuning symptom relief.

That is, you maintain a proper level and proportion of essential hormones while selectively adjusting a portion of the receptors that are responsible for the undesirable side effects of both menopause and the treatment of menopause, providing the opportunity of a 'fine tuning' that can be adjusted by the sufferer as conditions change, over time.

Instructions from the Doc on the use of Rhubestyn

Rhubarb Standardized Extract. Rhubestryn

1. Rhubestryn is a very high quality, cost-effective approach to the control of Menopausal Symptoms. It takes a few weeks for the effects to be noticed by most women, and peak effect can be expected in six to eight weeks.

2. The phytoestrogens in rhapontic rhubarb are not a replacement for the desired levels of estrogens in either males or females. That is, it does not eliminate the need for estrogen replacement, if that is what is medically indicated.

3. These phytoestrogens provide very specific relief of hot flashes, irritability, depression, vaginal dryness and sleep problems. They do not replace the alpha estradiol effects that are necessary to maintain other bodily functions.

4. Use Rhubestryn for symptoms control, but if you should do what you can, to measure and maintain your estradiol within a desired range, and balance the above disturbances with a single capsule of Rhubestryn, taken once a day.

5. For most women, it will take a combination of Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (B-HRT) to get baseline levels of hormones, and natural medicines like Rhubestryn to control the annoying symptoms that may persist.

References:

• Heger, M., Ventskovskiy, B. M., Borzenko, I., Kneis, K. C., Biller, A., & Jarry, H. (2006). Efficacy and safety of a special extract of Rheum rhaponticum (ERr 731) in perimenopausal women with climacteric complaints: a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Menopause, 13(5), 744-759. This study demonstrated that ERr 731 significantly reduced menopausal symptoms compared to placebo.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., Richardson, A., Rettenberger, R., & Heger, M. (2007). Efficacy of ERr 731 in women with menopausal symptoms. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 110(3), 621-628. The authors reported significant improvements in menopausal symptoms with ERr 731 treatment.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., & Heger, M. (2008). The special extract ERr 731 of Rheum rhaponticum: an option for women intolerant of hormone therapy. Maturitas, 60(1), 44-52. This publication discusses ERr 731 as a viable alternative for women who cannot undergo hormone therapy.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., & Heger, M. (2009). ERr 731: an evidence-based alternative to hormone therapy for menopausal symptom relief. Journal of Women's Health, 18(8), 1139-1147. The study supports ERr 731 as an effective non-hormonal treatment for menopausal symptoms.

• Heger, M., & Ventskovskiy, B. M. (2007). ERr 731: a new option for the treatment of climacteric complaints. Gynecological Endocrinology, 23(1), 63-68. The authors highlight the benefits of ERr 731 in managing climacteric symptoms.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., & Heger, M. (2007). ERr 731: a non-hormonal treatment for climacteric complaints. Menopause International, 13(2), 66-73. This article reviews the efficacy of ERr 731 as a non-hormonal therapy for menopausal symptoms.

• Heger, M., & Ventskovskiy, B. M. (2008). ERr 731: a novel approach to the treatment of menopausal symptoms. International Journal of Women's Health, 1, 91-100. The study presents ERr 731 as a promising treatment for menopausal discomforts.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., & Heger, M. (2009). ERr 731: a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 15(1), 48-56. The authors discuss the safety and efficacy of ERr 731 in alleviating menopausal symptoms.

• Heger, M., & Ventskovskiy, B. M. (2009). ERr 731: a phytoestrogen alternative to hormone therapy. Climacteric, 12(1), 30-40. This publication explores ERr 731 as a phytoestrogenic alternative for hormone therapy in menopausal women.

• Kaszkin-Bettag, M., & Heger, M. (2010). ERr 731: a herbal extract for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Phytomedicine, 17(11), 861-868. The study concludes that ERr 731 is an effective herbal remedy for menopausal symptom relief.

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David S. Klein, MD FACA FACPM

David S. Klein, MD, FACA, FACPM

1917 Boothe Circle, Suite 171

Longwood, Florida 32750

Tel: 407-679-3337

Fax: 407-678-7246

www.suffernomore.com

David S. Klein, MD Functional Medicine Physician