Manganese

What does it do?

Manganese is involved in many bodily functions. It helps to form healthy bones, cartilage, tissues and nerves, activates more than twenty enzymes including an antioxidant enzyme system, stabilises blood sugar, promotes healthy DNA and RNA, is essential for reproduction and red blood cell synthesis and important for insulin production. It reduces cell damage and is required for brain function.

Deficiency Signs

Deficiency signs are; muscle twitches, childhood growing pains, dizziness or poor sense of balance, fits, convulsions, sore knees, joint pain.

Food Sources of Manganese

Nuts and whole grains are the best sources. Most animal foods have low levels, though egg yolk have a decent level. Some other foods sources are; Watercress, pineapple, okra, endive, spinach, blackberries, raspberries, lettuce, grapes, lima beans, strawberries, oats, beetroot, celery.

Best Supplement

Amino acid chelate, manganese citrate or gluconate.