Manganese is an essential trace mineral. In the form of manganese
superoxide dismutase (Mn SOD), it is an antioxidant enzyme, which is concentrated
mostly in the pituitary gland, liver, pancreas, kidney, and bone. The
adult human body contains about 10 to 20 milligrams of manganese. Manganese
acts as a catalyst and cofactor in many enzymatic processes involved in
the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, mucopolysaccharide synthesis
(in bones, collagen, and connective tissue), and in the synthesis of glycoproteins,
which coat body cells and protect against invading viruses. Many of the
metabolic functions in which manganese is an important cofactor can use
magnesium and manganese interchangeably.
Manganese is an integral part of the enzyme superoxide dismutase which
is a powerful antioxidant designed to eliminate environmental toxins and
free radicals. Ongoing research shows that manganese may be important
in he development and maintenance of healthy bones; the synthesis of mucopoly-saccharides
that surround and protect cells and lubricate joints; sex hormones synthesis;
nerve development and function; stimulation of glycogen formation in the
liver; activation of natural killer cells.
Manganese, due to its role in connective tissue formation may help prevent
and treat symptoms of arthritis. Manganese may also useful in controlling
diabetes mellitus in some patients. Manganese supplementation can, in
some cases, result in an overall decrease in blood sugar levels, and subsequent
increase storage of glycogen in the liver. Manganese supplements are used
in the treatment of various schizophrenic disorders. Manganese and zinc
supplements have been used to induce copper excretion in patients with
dangerously high copper accumulation in the body.
Deficiency of manganese causes impaired mucopolysaccharide synthesis
resulting in the formation of otoliths responsible for maintaining coordinated
reflexes and equilibrium; skeletal abnormalities; defective muscular coordination;
impaired glucose tolerance and management of blood sugar levels; disturbed
lipid metabolism; impaired production of glycoproteins, which are the
coatings that protect every cell in the body; increased susceptibility
to cancer; impaired production of connective tissue
Dietary Sources: Tea, whole grains, nuts, and avocados
are rich sources, with other fruits and vegetables containing moderate
amounts. The milling of grains removes 73% of manganese.
Dosage: RDA, 1.4 –5 mg. Amount for treating health
conditions is on average 5-10 mg per day.
Side Effects: Manganese is one of the safest of all
elements, because when excess is consumed, absorption is very low, and
that which is absorbed is excreted efficiently via the bile and kidneys.
Toxicity of manganese has only been noted in miners exposed to manganese
ores and continually absorbing dust through the lungs.
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Research Overview
Human and animal research were reviewed. Following are some important
aspects of manganese:
1. The presence of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) inhibits cancer
cell growth in the pancreas
2. It synthesizes cholesterol and fatty acids in the liver
3. Prevents development of cancers in humans
4. Protects against selenium toxicity
5. With copper, used in the treatment of chronic tonsillitis
6. Protects insulin secreting glands in the pancreas (islets)
7. Manganese and lithium baths may be used in the treatment of psoriasis
8. Manganese has been used to treat liver failure induced by acetaminophen
poisoning
9. Mn SOD has been used to protect against the harmful effects of pleurisy
10. Manganese is beneficial to sperm motility
11. Manganese, along with chromium, selenium, and copper are beneficial
in the treatment of burn injury
12. Manganese, iron and copper levels tend to be low in accomplished athletes
vs non-athletes
13. With chondroitin, manganese can hinder cartilage deterioration in
osteoarthritis
14. As an antioxidant, manganese can reduce reperfusion injury in the
heart
15. Manganese increased shell strength in chicken eggs
16. Manganese can protect against radiation treatments
17. Manganese can improve muscle relaxation in chronic spasmophilia
18. Manganese can increase the potency of anti-tumor vaccines
Manganese
Citations (37)
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