Mannitol: what it is and uses

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on
MANNITOL WHAT IT IS AND USES

The mannitol is a sweetener used in the food industry both as a pharmaceutical for their properties. It is obtained from the hydrogenation of manora sugar and belongs to the group of so-called polyols. It is found in nature, especially in exudates from trees, fungi, and seaweed. It is available in granular and powdered form and is used many times to mask bitter flavors. It is not cariogenic and contains a low caloric content, being suitable for consumption.

If you want to know what mannitol is and what its uses are , continue reading this article by FastlyHeal , we will explain it to you.

What is mannitol

The mannitol is a type of polyol obtained from the hydrogenation of mannose sugar. This sugar is simple and is part of some plant polysaccharides such as mannan, as well as in certain animal glycoproteins.

It is used largely in the pharmaceutical and food industry to cover bitter flavors thanks to its cooling effect , as well as to treat various conditions such as cerebral edema, intraocular pressure, promote the urinary excretion of toxins, etc.

Mannitol raises blood concentration by increasing the osmotic gradient between blood and tissues. In this way, it facilitates the flow out of tissues in the brain, the eye, and the blood.

Uses of mannitol

Pharmaceutical industry

It has been used as a substitute for blood plasma for hemorrhages, since its permanence in the blood is greater than that of serum. It is also used as an osmotic diuretic in cases of nephrotic syndrome, as well as to relieve intracaneal hypertension. It is also administered in people suffering from acute kidney failure to increase urine production and facilitate kidney function, as well as speed up the elimination of toxic substances in the body.

Food industry

It is used as a sweetener in diet foods such as chewing gum, as well as to make resins for its cooling effect. It is not cariogenic and has low caloric levels. Mannitol does not increase the acidity of the mouth after ingestion, so it does not cause cavities or damage tooth enamel. Therefore, it is considered as an alternative to sugar.

Mannitol administration

Mannitol is administered intravenously, always by a medical professional. It must be administered slowly and requires frequent examination of the blood to determine the duration of treatment with this substance.

Side effects of mannitol

  • Increased urination
  • Pain or difficulty urinating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Chills, fever
  • Headache.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Mannitol: what it is and uses , we recommend that you enter our category of Medication and medical tests .

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