Uses of manganese in the body

January 13, 2022

Manganese is a trace element whose total content in the body is in the range of 15-20mg. this is such a small amount but it is all the body needs for optimum functioning.

You’ll also be surprised how many people lack that amount. Of course not regular consumers of Vitaminfood complete nutrition products, but a majority of the population is deficient of manganese. We deliver a complete package. However, the issue with these micronutrients is that they are found in small quantities in a variety of foods. Unless using supplements, getting a regular supply of as little as 2mg/day (the recommended daily intake) can prove to be difficult for many.

To build that amount and maintain requires regular intake of adequate amounts and Vitaminfood helps you achieve that with minimal strife. Especially if surviving on a highly refined diet, you need to tone it down and consider complete nutrition from us.

Most of the manganese in the body is found in the bones and whatever is remaining is distributed across various body organs. It is found in the pancreas, pituitary gland, liver, kidneys and adrenal gland where it helps with different reactions.

Role of manganese in the body

Activation of enzymes.

Manganese just like several other minerals in the body is useful in enzymatic reactions, usually as a cofactor.

It is used in digestive enzymes and those that are involved in the utilization of other nutrients. For example, it is vital for the body to use vitamin B1, B7, Vitamin C, choline and vitamin E.

It is needed in the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. These are some of the most vital processes in the body and manganese is necessary for them to proceed efficiently.

Manganese is also a part of several metalloenzymes which are crucial in blood glucose level regulation. They are involved in the metabolism of glutamine and glucose which determine the concentration of osmotically active sugar in the blood.

Bone and cartilage growth

Most of the manganese is found within the bone so it only makes sense for it to have a role it plays in their development. Manganese is one of the minerals that keep the bones strong and healthy. It plays a role in the processes involved in bone development, growth and resorption. Manganese-activated enzymes are heavily used in these processes.

Important to mental functioning

The manganese antioxidant helps free the brain from free radicals and thus limiting its degeneration and allowing it to function optimally. The mineral can also bind to neurotransmitters and stimulate the movement of impulses. This also improves brain function. It is also important to note that having the mineral in excess amounts could have a potentially counteractive effect. Collagen formation

Manganese helps keep the skin looking good even after being injured. It is needed for the production and healthy being of skin cells and collagen that holds the skin structure together. It is also necessary for the wound healing process as this involves the formation of new fibers and new cells and manganese helps with all of this.

Antioxidant properties.

Manganese forms a compound called manganese superoxide dismutase which is one of the major antioxidants in the body. In the cell, it is abundant in the mitochondria of the organs with some magnesium. With the mitochondrion using up to 90% of the oxygen, most of the free radicals and reactive oxygen species are most likely to be found here. MnSOD helps to keep the mitochondrion healthy and thereby protecting the entire cell and the organs from the effects of oxidative stress.

Reproductive health

Mn is needed for the production of sex hormones. It boosts fertility and lactating. This also extends to reducing pre-menopausal symptoms. manganese helps to alleviate mood swings, headaches, depression, and irritability to a considerable extent.

Functioning of thyroid glands and promotes thyroxine production.

Manganese is necessary for the action of many enzymes and is needed for thyroxine production in the thyroid gland. Thyroxine helps in general metabolism and growth & development processes.

Proper iron metabolism to prevent anemia

Manganese helps in the metabolism of various nutrients both in absorption rates and the ability of the body tissues to utilize them. Iron is one of them and manganese is key to the use of iron in the bone marrows during the production of red blood cells.

Works in coordination with the B-vitamins to help generate the feeling of well-being and happy life.

It helps in the production of thyroxine and enhances the sensitivity to B vitamins. These two processes and compounds are essential in having a good mood and being positive about life.

Manganese deficiency

Symptoms of manganese deficiency include:

Feeling of tiredness and weakness because heat and energy metabolism are both affected.
Reduced glucose tolerance
Impaired growth
Impotence and infertility issues
Bone deformities and decrease in bone density.

This is mostly a mild deficiency among the majority of the population. However, it is a wise thing to have the serum level checked to prevent the consequences of a serious deficiency. We would be glad to help in correcting any problems.

Manganese toxicity

This is a more frequent occurrence than deficiency. The greatest risk being with people working in environments like welding and smelting where it can be inhaled. The problem with this is that it bypasses the body’s natural defenses that regulate manganese intake. This is transported directly to the lungs, liver, kidneys and central nervous system.

If it accumulates in the brain due to repeated exposure, it leads to a condition called manganism which is somewhat similar to Parkinson’s disease. The symptoms include:

difficulty walking
muscle spasms in the face
tremors
irritability
aggressiveness
hallucinations
decreased lung function, cough or bronchitis.

Besides the brain, the liver and kidneys are also affected greatly especially if there was a preexisting condition.

Manganese is one of three toxic trace minerals in the body so you better get it right. Vitaminfood gives you the ability to do so with ease. Now that you know very well that you should not be deficient because the body will suffer and you also cannot have an excess as the brain collapses in such a situation. Get it right with Vitaminfood today. Set up your subscription plan now.

References:

Back to blog