Manganese
Benefits of Manganese
- Bones
- Energy-yielding metabolism
- Connective tissue
- Protection of cells from oxidative stress
- Form: Manganese Bisglycinate, Citrate
- Food source: Wholegrains, nuts, legumes, leafy green vegetables, tea and pineapple.
What is Manganese?
Manganese is an important trace mineral, like zinc, copper and iodine, meaning that our bodies require it in small amounts for a variety of processes. Some manganese is stored in our organs and bones, and we need to get more from our diet. The main role manganese plays is in activating specific enzymes, helping them carry out their work in the body. It is part of one of the body's key antioxidant enzymes, 'superoxide dismutase' (SOD).
What does Manganese do?
Manganese contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the normal formation of connective tissue. Researchers have looked at its role across many areas of health.
Manganese contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Antioxidants 'scavenge' and neutralise 'free radicals', which are unstable molecules. Researchers have measured antioxidant nutrient intake and antioxidant status in the blood, and SOD itself has been the subject of a good deal of research.
Manganese contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. Studies in post-menopausal women have looked at manganese taken alongside calcium and other minerals, measuring changes in spinal bone and bone mass.
Manganese is also found in the brain and nervous system, and researchers have studied its role in brain function, including how nerve cells pass messages to one another. Manganese has been studied in pregnancy too, with researchers looking at manganese levels in early pregnancy.
You may be interested in reading 'Why is bone health so important in menopause?'. Discover 'A nutritionist recommended pregnancy diet guide'.
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