GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Manganese is found in whole grains, wheat
germ, bran, peas, nuts, leafy green vegetables, beets, egg yolks, bananas, liver, organ meats, and
milk.
ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:
Manganese is required for the initiation of
vital enzyme reactions and
proper bone development
as well as synthesis of
mucopolysaccharides. It is also
essential for the formation of certain enzymes, one of
which is superoxide dismutase, a powerful antioxidant that neutralises potentially damaging free radicals. It is also helpful with osteoarthritis. The pancreas needs manganese in order
to function normally, and it is also a requirement for
normal carbohydrate metabolism. It plays an important part
in the formation of thyroxin, a hormone secreted by
the thyroid gland. Some research has suggested that manganese may also improve memory and reduce
nervous irritability.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
Weight loss, dermatitis, nausea, slow growth
and color changes of hair, low cholesterol, disturbances in fat metabolism and glucose tolerance,
deficiency suspected in diabetes, deficiency during
pregnancy may be a factor in epilepsy in the offspring,
myasthenia gravis (severe loss of muscle strength).
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
5-10mg in combination with other minerals.
No RDA has been established, however recent recommendations of an adequate intake level
are 1.8mg for women and 2.3mg for men.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
The maximum safe level is 11mg per day (Note:
this is the total intake from food, water and
dietary supplements – not dietary supplements alone). This dose is based on a recent study, where
no adverse effects were seen when 11mg was consumed
over an extended period. A dose of 15mg per day was found to
cause Parkinson’s-like symptoms. Note that the National Research Council’s “estimated safe and
adequate daily dietary intake” is 2.5 mg.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Too much manganese is known to cause nervous system disorders, the element is neurotoxic
and can cause Parkinson-like symptoms when taken in excess.
People with cirrhosis of the liver, cholestasis, and
diabetes should consult their doctor before taking
supplementary manganese.
SOLUBILITY:
are water soluble
