Mannitol is a type of sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a sweetener and a medication. It is found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, such as mushrooms and seaweed. In the food industry, mannitol is often used in sugar-free products because it has fewer calories than regular sugar and does not raise blood sugar levels significantly. In medicine, mannitol is used primarily as an osmotic diuretic, which helps to reduce swelling and pressure in the body. It is often administered to patients with conditions like cerebral edema or to promote kidney function during certain medical procedures. Mannitol works by drawing water out of tissues and into the bloodstream, helping to eliminate excess fluid.