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Posted on Dec 30, 2005, 8 p.m.
By Bill Freeman
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.
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:
Manganese salts are water soluble
