Manganese ~ Mn+
PROMOTES
Healthy Cartilage
Healthy Connective Tissues
Normal Blood Clotting
Thyroid Function
Healthy Mitochondria
Inner Ear Development
Dopamine Production
Vibrant Hair Color
PROTECTS AGAINST
Arthritis
Stiff Joints
Abnormal Bleeding
Low Thyroid Hormone Levels
Low Energy Production
Cravings
Dull Hair
Rough Skin
Manganese can be neurotoxic producing a syndrome similar in symptoms to Parkinson's Disease.
There is no RDA for manganese. Suggested dietary intake has been 2 to 5 mg a day.
Overview
Manganese is a transition metal. It was discovered in 1770 by Ignatius Kaim, investigated by Bergman and Scheele and finally isolated by Swedish mineralist Johann Gottlieb Gahn. It is number 25 on the atomic periodic table.
Manganese, an essential trace micromineral, is a cofactor in the activation of a wide variety of enzymes that influence many biological activities. It is needed for bone growth and fatty acid and protein metabolism.
The average human body contains only 18 - 20 mg of manganese total, most of which is contained within the bone matrix. Small amounts are distributed in the pituitary gland. The liver, pancreas and intestinal tissues have miniscule amounts.
It is absorbed in the small intestines. Supplements should be prescribed and closely monitored by a licensed health care professional.
Deficiency Symptoms
Symptoms of manganese deficiency are extremely rare as magnesium can substitute for manganese. Symptoms of manganese deficiency are abnormal skeletal structures, loss of muscle coordination and weak ligaments.
Hypocholesterolemia (low cholesterol) may be associated with low manganese levels as it is needed for biosynthesis of the various cholesterols.
There have been low levels found in some epileptics, schizophrenics, and women with osteoporosis.
Drugs That Deplete:
None known.
Food Prep To Retain:
None known.
Food Sources:
Many food of plant and animal origins contain manganese.
Best sources;
-Beans and Peas
-Blueberries
-Dark Green Leafy vegetables
-Raisins and other Dried Fruits
-Tea
-Whole Grain Bread and Cereal
Fortified Foods Available:
None.
Function in the Body:
Manganese is necessary for the synthesis of glycoproteins, lipoproteins, and mucopolysaccarides. These are building blocks for cartilage and connective tissue. It also has an influence on the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts and the mineralization of bone. Manganese containing enzymes play a role in the synthesis of prothrombin and so has a role in blood clotting regulation.
The manganese containing enzyme, mitochondria super oxide dismutase, is one of the prime antioxidant defense systems against the toxic effects of oxygen during energy production within each cell.
Manganese is needed for thyroxin (T4), the main hormone of the thyroid gland, dopamine, a major neurotransmitter, and melanin, a protein giving color and flexibility to hair and skin.
The embryonic development of the otoliths of the inner ear necessary for equilibrium depend on manganese. During pregnancy, food sources should be part of the diet.
Other Facts:
Miners of manganese and welders who work without adequate safety, protective gear, risk inhalation and toxicity that could lead to manganism, a Parkinson's Disease like neurological disorder. The dust from the mining activity and aerosolized manganese from the welding rod is inhaled by those who are not properly masked. In 1993, the National Institute of Health (NIH) issued a statement concerning manganese and manganism, stating, ' Occupational exposure to manganese for periods of six months to two years can result in manganism, a disease of the central nervous system characterized by psychogenic and neurological disorders with symptoms resembling Parkinson's Disease ".
A diet low in iron and high in manganese, particularly in a person with depleted iron stores, will deplete iron further as manganese competes with iron for absorption. Vegetarians should be careful with manganese supplementation for this reason.
Increased levels of manganese have been found in the brains of some persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gerig's Disease)
Recommended Dietary Allowance:
No RDA - recommended dietary allowance has been established for manganese. Some sources describe 2 - 5 mg per day from dietary sources.
AI* (Adequate Intake)
AGE (YRS) AMOUNT in milligrams (mg) / day
Infants
0.0-0.5: 0.003*
0.5-1.0: 0.6*
Children
1-3: 1.2*
4-8: 1.5*
Males
9-13: 1.9*
14-18: 2.2*
19-30: 2.2 - 2.3*
31-50: 2.2 - 2.3*
51-70: 2.2 - 2.38
71+: 2.2 - 2.38
Females
9-13: 1.6*
14-18: 1.6*
19-30: 1.8*
31-50: 1.8*
51-70: 1.8*
71+: 1.8*
Pregnant: 2.0*
Lactating: 2.6*
Toxic Doses:
Manganese can be neurotoxic. Excessive intake, either inhaled or ingested, can produce manganism, with permanent neuro damage and symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's Disease.
Toxicity symptoms include:
-Dementia
-Gait Alterations
-Psychosis
-Mask Like Face
-Neuromuscular Dysfunction
-Tremor
High levels of manganese can interfere with iron absorption.
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