Manganese has many health benefits such as help to create essential enzymes for building bones, contribute to healthy bone structure and bone metabolism. Also this mineral acts as a co – enzyme to assist in metabolic activities in our bodies. Also manganese has many other health benefits such as regulation of carbohydrates, metabolism of fats and blood sugar level, proper functioning of the thyroid gland and sex hormones, absorption of calcium and formation of connective tissues. This is naturally occurring mineral in our bodies and it is in very small amounts. This mineral is an actual component of the manganese superoxide dismutase enzyme. This is a powerful antioxidant which is seeking out the free radicals in our bodies and it can neutralize their damages which mean that it can prevent many of the potential dangers that they cause.
Some of the symptoms of manganese deficiency can be severe cramps, weakness, fast heartbeats, sweating and eye problems. Severe deficiency can cause osteoporosis, heart problems, pancreatic damage and infertility in women. [1]
The most important sources of manganese are carrots, figs, kiwi, cucumbers, bananas, whole wheat, tofu, leeks, turmeric, cloves, molasses, spinach, lettuce, tropical fruits, blackberries, strawberries, mustard greens, watercress, nuts, oats, peppermint, rice, green beans, beetroot, grapes, garlic, pineapples and raspberries. This mineral is one of the only 3 toxic trace minerals in our bodies so we cannot have it too much or too little. You should never overdo on manganese supplementation because it can lead to dangerous conditions and some of them can be fatal.
Manganese health benefits
Improves digestion: This mineral can help to maintain the function of the digestive tract. It can improve the absorption of fat in the process of digestion. It can reduce issues like bowel discomfort and constipation. Also this mineral is very important for the efficient food utilization and the transformation into usable energy. [2]
Regulates glucose metabolism: This mineral can aid in regulation of glucose metabolism in the human body. It is known fact that his health benefit of manganese can provide proper resources to different parts of the body which can increase the functional efficiency and energy. Also when the glucose is properly absorbed and utilized by organ systems and muscles, then there are fewer chances for excess buildup which can be very dangerous for people who suffer from diabetes. Proper manganese levels in the body are aiding in the proper management of diabetes. [3]
manganese benefits and uses
Improves cognitive function: This is a very important mineral for the healthy functioning of the brain and it can be used as a natural treatment for specific nervous disorders. This is most likely happening due to the superoxide dismutase which scavenges free radicals throughout the body in which neural pathways are also included. Free radicals can affect all parts of your body in which brain is also included and this is a reason why powerful antioxidants like SOD are required. This mineral has an antioxidant role and it can bind with neurotransmitters and it can stimulate faster or more efficient transmission of electrical impulses throughout your body and it can speed up the cognitive function. [4]
Boosts vitamin absorption: This vitamin can help to absorb viral vitamins like Vitamin E and Vitamin B and minerals like magnesium. This is happening because manganese is needed in the enzymatic reactions to absorb and utilize vitamins which are taken from food. It is known fact that this mineral is one of the most versatile co – factors for enzymatic reactions. If there is a risk of having a deficiency in some vitamins, then you should increase the manganese levels in your body because they are still within non – toxic and safe levels. [5]
Improves thyroid health: This is a very important co – factor for many different enzymes and it also a very important component of thyroxine arguably the PMS hormone in the thyroid gland. It is very important to have proper functioning of the thyroid gland and its hormonal synthesis benefits a wide variety of healthy issues in the body such as organ system efficiency, metabolism, appetite and weight loss. [6]
References:
[1] Oregon State University. Manganese. Retrieved from lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/manganese
[2] Silva MS, Prabhu AJ, Ørnsrud R, et al. In vitro digestion method to evaluate solubility of dietary zinc, selenium and manganese in salmonid diets. Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology. 2020;57:126418.
[3] Li L, Yang X. The essential element manganese, oxidative stress, and metabolic diseases: Links and interactions. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. 2018.
[4] Vollet K, Haynes EN, Dietrich KN. Manganese exposure and cognition across the lifespan: Contemporary review and argument for biphasic dose-response health effects. Current Environmental Health Reports. 2016;3(4):392–404.
[5] Uwitonze AM, Razzaque MS. Role of magnesium in Vitamin D activation and function. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 2018;118:181-9.
[6] Soldin OP, Aschner M. Effects of manganese on thyroid hormone homeostasis: Potential links. Neurotoxicology. 2007;28(5):951–6.
