Manganese in Our Body

Minute quantities of manganese are needed for protein and fat metabolism, healthy nerves, a healthy immune system, and blood sugar regulation.

Body contains between 10 to 20 milligram of manganese, which is concentrated primarily in the bone, liver, pancreas and brain.

Manganese is used in energy production and is required for normal bone growth and for reproduction.

In addition, it is used in the formation of cartilage and synovial (lubricating) fluid of the joints. It is also necessary for the synthesis of bone.

Too little dietary manganese causes impaired skeletal development and reproduction, abnormal carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and movement disorders.

Manganese is essential for people with iron deficiency anemia and is needed for the utilization of vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin E.

Manganese works well with the B complex vitamins to give as overall feeling of well being.

Manganese is found in many essential enzymes, which are biologically important compounds. Enzymes in the body speed up crucial chemical reactions.

It aids in the formation of mother’s milk and is a key element in the production of enzymes needed to oxidize fats and to metabolize purines, including the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase.

Enzymes containing manganese protect the body from harmful oxygen radicals, highly reactive oxygen containing molecules that can damage living tissues.

Absorption of manganese is poor, only 1 to 15 percent. The high levels of iron, calcium an phosphorus may inhibit absorption.

Following absorption, transferring binds manganese and transport it in the bloodstream.
Manganese in Our Body