Manganese is predominantly stored in the bones, liver, kidney, and pancreas. It is not yet known exactly how magnesium in absorbed in the body, although its availability seems to be tied in some way to iron absorption; increased amounts of iron in the diet usually coincide with decreased manganese levels. This is probably why men, who usually have higher iron levels than women, generally absorb less manganese. Taking magnesium supplements has also been shown to inhibit manganese absorption.
Manganese is also linked to decreased super oxide dismutase (SOD) activity in white blood cells, which leaves the body more vulnerable to the damaging effects of free radicals.
Manganese not only increases the effectiveness of vitamin E and B vitamins, but supplements have been shown to increase the effectiveness of glucosamine supplements, which have been helpful to some people suffering from arthritis.
Sources of manganese
Good natural sources of manganese include avocados, nuts and seeds, seaweed, tea, raisins, pineapple, spinach, broccoli, oranges, beans, whole grains, blueberries, egg yolks, dried peas, and green leafy vegetables.
Many herbs also contain manganese, such as alfalfa, burdock root, chamomile, dandelion, fenugreek, ginseng, hops, horsetail, lemongrass, parsley, peppermint, wild yam, and raspberry.
Benefits of manganese
Manganese can help reduce fatigue levels, prevent the incidence and severity of osteoporosis, and even improve memory.
It exerts a similar but less pronounced effect like copper in the synthesis of hemoglobin. Some workers believe that hypo chromic anemia is best treated by a combination of Fe, Cu and Mn.
It has some role in normal reproductive physiology.
Manganese has been reported to reduce heavy menstrual flows and improve thyroid function (thyroid function is dependent on a balance of manganese and iodine, and a shortage of either could cause hypothyroidism).
Mn ions activate many enzymes viz. arginase, phosphoglucomutase, muscle adenosine triphosphate, choline esterase, hexokinase etc.
The trace mineral manganese functions primarily as a component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD prevents the damaging effects of the super oxide free radical from destroying cellular components.
Manganese is a popular remedy for strains, sprains and inflammation due to its ability to increase the level or activity of SOD thus increasing antioxidant activity. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions have an increased need for manganese.
Manganese plays an important role in cerebral function because it is an essential metal for glucose utilisation within the brain and in neurotransmitter control.
Deficiency symptoms of manganese
Manganese deficiency had been linked to infertility, bone malformation, weakness, seizures, atherosclerosis, confusion, convulsions, eye problems, hearing problems, heart disorders, high cholesterol levels, hypertension, irritability, memory loss, muscle contractions, pancreatic damage, profuse perspiration, rapid pulse, tooth grinding, tremors, and osteoporosis.
Low levels of manganese have been observed in epileptic patients. Those with the lowest levels of manganese have been found to exhibit the highest seizure activity.
Daily requirement
There is no Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for manganese, but 2.5 to 5.0 milligrams is safe and recommended for all those 11 years and older.