MANGANESE

MANGANESE

Manganese is essential in trace amounts in the human cells, where it acts as an enzyme activator and catalyst and provides nourishment to the nerves and the brain. Minute quantities of manganese are needed for protein and fat metabolism, healthy nerves, healthy immune system and blood sugar regulation. It is useful for energy production and is also required for normal growth and reproduction. Manganese is necessary for iron-deficient anemics and is also needed for the utilization of thiamine and vitamin E.
Rich sources of manganese are avocados, beans (pinto, lima, navy), beef, blueberries, dried peas, eggs, green leafy vegetables, honey, legumes, milk, nuts, oatmeal, pineapple, raisin bran, rice, seaweed, shredded wheat, spinach (palak), sweet potatoes, whole-wheat bread, tuna and yogurt.
A deficiency can prevent excess sugar from being removed from the blood; impair muscle coordination; cause fatigue and female disorders. A deficiency will also exhibit retarded growth, skeletal deformities, ataxia and convulsions. The defects in the formation of the organic bone matrix are attributed to dysfunctions of two manganese dependent enzymes.