What is Manganese Used For?
November 2, 2020
Manganese is a trace mineral. You only need a tiny amount, but don’t let that fool you. It has a huge impact on many bodily functions including bone health, metabolism, brain function, blood, enzymes and more. Since your body cannot produce manganese, you must obtain it from your diet. Once consumed, up to 20 mg. of manganese can be stored in your liver, pancreas, bone, kidney and brain. Here are just a few things that Manganese is used for.
Bone Health and Joint Comfort
These are the major benefits of manganese. That’s why you’ll typically find the manganese mineral in bone and joint formulas in combination with minerals glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamin D, calcium, zinc and copper. Not only does manganese support bone development and maintenance, it also supports joint comfort, especially important for mature adults with wear-and-tear joint issues.
Acts as an Antioxidant
Manganese helps form the antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD happens to be one of the most important antioxidants in your body that helps fight free radicals. Free radicals are thought to greatly contribute to aging, cardiovascular health and more.
Plays a Role in Blood Sugar
Manganese is heavily concentrated in the pancreas and may play a role in producing insulin and regulating blood sugar levels.
Activates Metabolic Enzymes
Manganese helps your body digest and use protein and amino acids and is involved in the metabolism of cholesterol and carbs. Manganese is also good for helping your body utilize certain vitamins including C and E.
Healthy Brain Function
As mentioned above, since manganese is an antioxidant (SOD), it can help protect against free radicals that may damage brain cells and the nervous system. It also binds to neurotransmitters to stimulate faster movement throughout your body.
Contributes to Good Thyroid Health
Manganese plays a role in producing thyroxine, an important hormone for healthy functioning of your thyroid gland. Your thyroid gland regulates a variety of processes such as appetite, metabolism, temperature, weight, skin and more.
Food Sources of Manganese
You’ll find manganese in whole grains, oysters, nuts, rice, leafy vegetables, and black pepper. Smaller amounts can also be found in pineapple, pecans, green tea, raisin bran, almonds, navy beans and peanuts.
The recommendation for manganese intake is 2.3 mg. per day for adult men and 1.8 mg. per day for adult women.
The best way to make sure you’re getting the right amount of manganese is through your everyday diet. If supplementation is needed, always speak to your doctor first.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.
