The Role of Sugar in the Body

Importance of Sugar

Sugar plays a crucial role in energy production and storage, as well as in maintaining cellular regulation throughout the body.

Concerns About Added Sugars

A quick online search reveals numerous articles highlighting the negative effects of added sugars in the diet. Added sugars lack micronutrients and have been linked to liver damage, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

Recommendations from Nutritionists

Given these harmful effects, nutritionists advise reducing added sugar intake and opting for natural sugars found in fruits and plants.

A Notable Exception: D-Mannose

Research Findings

A recent study led by Dr. Wanjun Chen presents a significant exception to the concerns surrounding sugar. This research, which utilized a mouse model of autoimmune diabetes, discovered that D-mannose—an epimer of glucose present in various plants and fruits—can suppress type 1 diabetes and lung inflammation associated with asthma.

Methodology of the Study

In the study, diabetic mice were given small amounts of D-mannose in their drinking water prior to the onset of any symptoms. Remarkably, this intervention prevented the onset of diabetes in the treated mice, while those consuming regular water developed the disease. Additionally, D-mannose supplementation also mitigated airway inflammation in asthmatic mice.

Mechanism of Action

The research team found that D-mannose boosts the production of regulatory T cells, which help modulate the immune system and prevent autoimmune diseases. Thus, D-mannose appears to reduce inflammation and inhibit the progression of conditions such as diabetes and asthma.

Safety of D-Mannose

Importantly, the study indicated that even low physiological levels of D-mannose, which do not harm human livers, can stimulate the production of these beneficial regulatory T cells.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research suggests that D-mannose is a ‘healthy’ or ‘good’ sugar that may serve as a safe dietary supplement. The relationship identified between D-mannose and diabetes indicates its potential to prevent and alleviate various allergies and immune diseases without adverse effects on human health. However, further clinical trials are necessary to confirm the safety and tolerability of D-mannose in humans.

Written by Neeti Vashi, BSc
Reference: Shi Y and Yin D. A good sugar, D-mannose, suppresses autoimmune diabetes. Cell Biosci. 25 September 2017.