Effect and Safety of the Dietary Supplement Mannite in Pediatric Patients With Chronic Functional Constipation

Overview

Functional constipation is a widely prevalent pediatric issue, with a prevalence in some studies as high as 32.2%. Treatment consists of a combination of behavioral and pharmacological interventions (mainly, administration of polyethylene glycol laxatives or the use of enemas). Glucomannan (GNN) is a polysaccharide of 1,4-D-glucose and D-mannose found in the soluble fiber of some plants. While studies available in the literature to date agree that mannite is a dietary supplement with safe use, the usefulness of this compound remains controversial.

Functional constipation is a widely prevalent pediatric issue, with a prevalence in some studies as high as 32.2%. Characterized by annoying and embarrassing symptoms such as reduced number of evacuations, increased stool consistency, fecal incontinence, and abdominal pain functional constipation has a negative impact on the quality of life of affected children and their families. It is a frequent reason for referral to the general pediatrician and pediatric gastroenterologist and significantly impacts health care spending The guidelines publicized by the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) on functional constipation in children provide the most up-to-date evidence-based recommendations for the evaluation, treatment and follow-up of children with this condition. Key indications include a diagnosis based on history and physical examination and a definition of functional constipation based on the criteria of Rome. Treatment consists of a combination of behavioral and pharmacological interventions (mainly, administration of polyethylene glycol laxatives or the use of enemas). Glucomannan (GNN) is a polysaccharide of 1,4-D-glucose and D-mannose found in the soluble fiber of some plants. While studies available in the literature to date agree that mannite is a dietary supplement with safe use, the usefulness of this compound remains controversial. The study aims to evaluate the effect of Mannite supplement (composed of 90% Mannite from Fructose and 10% Manna from Ash) as a unique therapy in the treatment of functional constipation.