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What is Manganese?

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Manganese is a trace mineral your body needs for healthy bones, nutrient processing, and cell protection. It helps your nervous system, blood clotting, and vitamin use. Your body requires some manganese, but too much can harm your nervous system.
Experts

Biomedical scientist Dr. Rhonda Patrick emphasizes the importance of micronutrients for overall health, likely advocating for dietary Manganese from sources like nuts and seeds to support bone formation, blood clotting, and reducing oxidative stress, all crucial for brain health and energy (Micronutrient Inadequacies in the US Population: an Overview).

Physician Dr. Peter Attia, specializing in longevity and health optimization, would likely support monitoring Manganese intake to prevent deficiencies that could affect bone health and metabolism, aligning with his focus on personalized nutrition and biomarker monitoring (Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity).

Genetics professor Dr. David Sinclair promotes plant-based diets rich in Manganese for cellular health, given his emphasis on preventing age-related decline through nutrient-rich foods (Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don't Have To).

Optimal

For optimizing brain function and energy, the recommended intake of Manganese aligns with the Adequate Intake (AI) levels of 2.3 mg/day for men and 1.8 mg/day for women, supporting neurotransmitter synthesis and antioxidant protection. Dietary sources like whole grains and nuts are preferred to avoid toxicity risks, with an upper limit of 11 mg/day to prevent adverse effects (Manganese - Health Professional Fact Sheet).

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, Manganese needs increase to 2.0 mg/day to support fetal development, with deficiencies linked to low birth weight and increased risk of preeclampsia, while excess intake above 9-11 mg/day can be neurotoxic. Experts recommend obtaining Manganese from dietary sources like nuts and whole grains and consulting healthcare providers before considering supplements (Manganese in pregnancy, Higher manganese levels in early pregnancy linked to lower preeclampsia risk).

Optimal Intake (male 85kg/181cm / female 52kg/171cm)

  • Cognitive optimization male: 2.3-5.0 mg/day with appropriate cofactors
  • Cognitive optimization female: 1.8-4.0 mg/day with appropriate cofactors
  • Energy optimization male: 2.3-5.0 mg/day (standard activity), 3.0-6.0 mg/day (athletic performance)
  • Energy optimization female: 1.8-4.0 mg/day (standard activity), 2.0-5.0 mg/day (athletic performance)
  • Optimal blood levels: 4-20 μg/L (0.073-0.365 μmol/L)

Five best animal sources:

  • Mussels: 85g (3 oz) provides 5.8 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 33.7g/1.2 oz)
  • Oysters: 85g (3 oz) provides 1.0 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 195.5g/6.9 oz)
  • Clams: 85g (3 oz) provides 0.6 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 325.8g/11.5 oz)
  • Beef liver: 85g (3 oz) provides 0.3 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 651.7g/23 oz)
  • Turkey, dark meat: 85g (3 oz) provides 0.2 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 977.5g/34.5 oz)

Five best non-animal sources:

  • Pineapple: 165g (1 cup) provides 2.6 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 146g/0.88 cup)
  • Hazelnuts: 28g (1 oz) provides 1.7 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 38g/1.35 oz)
  • Pecans: 28g (1 oz) provides 1.3 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 50g/1.77 oz)
  • Spinach, cooked: 180g (1 cup) provides 1.7 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 243g/1.35 cup)
  • Brown rice, cooked: 195g (1 cup) provides 1.1 mg (2.3 mg AI reached with 408g/2.09 cup)

Consistent intake required? Yes, manganese isn’t stored in significant amounts in the body, though some is stored in the liver, pancreas, and bones. Daily intake is necessary to maintain optimal tissue levels. Maintaining consistent intake is important for enzyme function, antioxidant processes, and metabolic health.

Are higher doses dangerous? Upper limit is 11 mg/day from food and supplements. Higher doses may affect nervous system function and interact with iron absorption. Excess manganese primarily affects the brain and can cause neurotoxicity, with symptoms resembling Parkinson’s disease in severe cases.

Optimal timing for intake:

  • With meals: Take with food, especially when consumed via supplements, to improve absorption and reduce potential for digestive discomfort
  • Consider iron intake: Separate manganese supplementation from high-iron meals or iron supplements to avoid competition for absorption
  • Morning/afternoon focus: Optimal for cognitive and energy production benefits
  • Balance with calcium: Consider calcium intake timing as high calcium can inhibit manganese absorption

Manganese is an essential trace mineral required for numerous biochemical reactions in the body. It functions primarily as a component of multiple enzymes and as an enzyme activator. Though needed in relatively small amounts compared to major minerals like calcium or magnesium, manganese plays crucial roles in:

  • Antioxidant function (component of manganese superoxide dismutase)
  • Bone formation and maintenance
  • Connective tissue development
  • Glucose and carbohydrate metabolism
  • Fat metabolism
  • Amino acid metabolism
  • Blood clotting
  • Sex hormone production
  • Immune function
  • Neurotransmitter synthesis and function
  • Wound healing

Manganese is present in all tissues in the body, with the highest concentrations found in the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and bones. It can exist in several oxidation states, with Mn2+ and Mn3+ being the most relevant for biological systems.

According to Dr. Andrew Huberman and other neuroscience experts, manganese is important for brain function, particularly in neurotransmitter synthesis and protection against oxidative stress. Dr. Rhonda Patrick has discussed its role in mitochondrial function, while health authorities like Dr. Paul Saladino note its importance in connective tissue health and bone formation.

Effects at Different Manganese Levels

Section titled Effects at Different Manganese Levels
  • Efficient antioxidant protection via manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD)
  • Normal carbohydrate and glucose metabolism
  • Proper bone formation and density
  • Healthy connective tissue development and maintenance
  • Efficient energy production in mitochondria
  • Normal brain and nerve function
  • Proper hormone synthesis and function
  • Healthy immune system response
  • Optimal thyroid function
  • Normal blood clotting mechanisms
  • Adequate wound healing
  • Balanced iron metabolism
  • Reduced antioxidant capacity
  • Impaired glucose tolerance
  • Altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism
  • Poor bone growth or bone demineralization
  • Cartilage abnormalities
  • Impaired wound healing
  • Reduced fertility
  • Growth retardation
  • Abnormal insulin production
  • Changes in hair and skin pigmentation
  • Neurological symptoms (subtle)
  • Altered cholesterol metabolism
  • Severe growth impairment
  • Skeletal abnormalities
  • Significant glucose intolerance
  • Ataxia (impaired balance and coordination)
  • Skin rash
  • Significant abnormalities in fat and carbohydrate metabolism
  • Hair color changes
  • Reduced serum cholesterol levels
  • Impaired protein metabolism
  • Abnormal thyroid function
  • Severe reproductive issues
  • Neurological symptoms resembling Parkinson’s disease
  • Tremors
  • Muscle spasms
  • Facial muscle spasms
  • Irritability
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Hallucinations
  • Difficulty walking
  • Slurred speech
  • Memory problems
  • Impaired judgment
  • Compulsive behaviors
  • Reduced attention span
  • In severe cases, permanent neurological damage

Manganese intake is measured in milligrams (mg).

Age GroupAI (mg/day)
Infants (0-6 months)0.003
Infants (7-12 months)0.6
Children (1-3 years)1.2
Children (4-8 years)1.5
Boys (9-13 years)1.9
Girls (9-13 years)1.6
Boys (14-18 years)2.2
Girls (14-18 years)1.6
Men (19+ years)2.3
Women (19+ years)1.8
Pregnancy2.0
Lactation2.6

Male (85kg, 181cm)

  • Standard AI: 2.3 mg/day
  • Adjusted for athletic activity: 3.0-6.0 mg/day
  • For optimal cognitive performance (Huberman/Patrick): 2.3-5.0 mg/day with appropriate cofactors

Female (52kg, 171cm)

  • Standard AI: 1.8 mg/day
  • Adjusted for athletic activity: 2.0-5.0 mg/day
  • For optimal cognitive performance (Huberman/Patrick): 1.8-4.0 mg/day with appropriate cofactors

Unlike many nutrients, manganese has an Adequate Intake (AI) rather than a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), indicating that evidence is still evolving regarding optimal intake levels. The AI represents an intake level assumed to ensure nutritional adequacy.

Many experts, including researchers focused on metabolic health and brain function, suggest that optimal intake may be higher than the AI for certain individuals, particularly athletes or those with higher metabolic needs.

Age GroupUL (mg/day)
Infants (0-12 months)Not established
Children (1-3 years)2
Children (4-8 years)3
Children (9-13 years)6
Adolescents (14-18 years)9
Adults (19+ years)11
Pregnancy & Lactation (≤18 years)9
Pregnancy & Lactation (19+ years)11

*Note: These upper limits apply to manganese from foods and supplements combined.

Male (85kg, 181cm)

  • Upper Limit: 11 mg/day
  • This limit applies regardless of body weight
  • Individual tolerance may vary based on overall health, iron status, and other factors

Female (52kg, 171cm)

  • Upper Limit: 11 mg/day
  • Same upper limit applies regardless of body weight
  • Women may be more sensitive to excess manganese due to potential interactions with iron metabolism

Note: The UL refers to total manganese intake from both food and supplements. Unlike some nutrients, there’s no separate limit for supplemental forms.

Dr. Rhonda Patrick and other researchers note that manganese toxicity is primarily a concern with inhalation exposure (occupational) or in individuals with liver dysfunction or iron deficiency, as these conditions can impair manganese excretion or increase absorption.

  • Acute Toxicity: Rare from oral intake; primarily occurs from industrial inhalation exposure
  • Chronic Toxicity: Can occur with regular intake exceeding the UL (11 mg/day), especially in vulnerable populations
  • Blood Levels: Toxicity typically associated with blood levels above 20 μg/L (0.365 μmol/L)

Symptoms of manganese toxicity (manganism) include:

  • Neurological symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease
  • Tremors and muscle spasms
  • Facial muscle spasms
  • Irritability and mood changes
  • Hallucinations
  • Difficulty walking
  • Slurred speech
  • Memory problems
  • Impaired judgment and cognitive function
  • Compulsive behaviors
  • Headaches
  • Reduced attention span
  • Mental confusion
  • Essential component of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD)
  • Protects cells from oxidative damage, particularly in mitochondria
  • Helps prevent oxidative stress-related damage to tissues
  • Scavenges free radicals that can damage DNA and proteins
  • Protects mitochondrial integrity and function
  • Supports overall cellular health and longevity
  • Helps maintain nervous system health
  • Supports immune cells against oxidative stress

Bone and Connective Tissue Health

Section titled Bone and Connective Tissue Health
  • Critical for bone formation and mineralization
  • Activates enzymes involved in production of proline and chondroitin sulfate
  • Supports collagen formation for skin, bone, and cartilage
  • Helps maintain bone density and strength
  • Essential for normal growth and development
  • Supports joint health and function
  • Promotes wound healing and tissue repair
  • Contributes to skeletal structure integrity
  • Crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism
  • Supports glucose utilization and regulation
  • Activates enzymes involved in fat metabolism
  • Essential for proper insulin production and function
  • Supports gluconeogenesis (production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources)
  • Helps regulate blood glucose levels
  • Contributes to energy production pathways
  • Supports proper thyroid hormone function
  • Involved in neurotransmitter synthesis
  • Supports normal brain development
  • Contributes to nerve signal transmission
  • Helps maintain myelin sheath integrity
  • Supports cognitive function
  • Involved in the metabolism of brain neurotransmitters
  • Helps protect neurons from oxidative damage
  • Supports overall brain health and function
  • Necessary for sex hormone production
  • Supports normal fertility
  • Involved in reproductive system development
  • Contributes to sperm motility
  • Supports hormone balance
  • Necessary for normal reproductive function
  • Helps maintain reproductive tissue health
  • Supports pregnancy and fetal development
  • Supports various aspects of immune cell function
  • Contributes to inflammatory response regulation
  • Helps with white blood cell efficiency
  • Supports natural immune defenses
  • Involved in wound healing processes
  • Helps maintain immune system balance
  • Contributes to protection against pathogens
  • Supports recovery from illness or injury

Manganese deficiency can cause:

  • Impaired growth
  • Skeletal abnormalities
  • Poor bone health and reduced bone density
  • Impaired glucose tolerance
  • Altered metabolism of carbohydrates and fats
  • Reduced fertility
  • Congenital disabilities (if deficient during pregnancy)
  • Changes in hair color
  • Skin rash and abnormalities
  • Increased susceptibility to seizures
  • Impaired wound healing
  • Reduced cholesterol levels
  • Poor nail and hair growth
  • Reduced efficiency of antioxidant systems
  • Neurological symptoms
  • Weight loss
  • Pancreatic dysfunction
  • Increased inflammation

Food Sources with Amounts to Meet Requirements

Section titled Food Sources with Amounts to Meet Requirements
FoodServing SizeManganese Content (mg)Amount to Reach AI (2.3 mg)Amount to Reach UL (11 mg)
Mussels85g (3 oz)5.833.7g (1.2 oz)161.2g (5.7 oz)
Oysters85g (3 oz)1.0195.5g (6.9 oz)935g (33 oz)
Clams85g (3 oz)0.6325.8g (11.5 oz)1,558.3g (55 oz)
Beef liver85g (3 oz)0.3651.7g (23 oz)3,116.7g (110 oz)
Turkey, dark meat85g (3 oz)0.2977.5g (34.5 oz)4,675g (165 oz)
Chicken, dark meat85g (3 oz)0.2977.5g (34.5 oz)4,675g (165 oz)
Pork85g (3 oz)0.11,955g (69 oz)9,350g (330 oz)
Beef85g (3 oz)0.0119,550g (690 oz)93,500g (3,300 oz)
Egg1 large0.01230 eggs1,100 eggs
FoodServing SizeManganese Content (mg)Amount to Reach AI (2.3 mg)Amount to Reach UL (11 mg)
Pineapple165g (1 cup)2.6146g (0.88 cup)698g (4.23 cup)
Hazelnuts28g (1 oz)1.738g (1.35 oz)182g (6.46 oz)
Pecans28g (1 oz)1.350g (1.77 oz)237g (8.46 oz)
Spinach, cooked180g (1 cup)1.7243g (1.35 cup)1,165g (6.47 cup)
Brown rice, cooked195g (1 cup)1.1408g (2.09 cup)1,950g (10 cup)
Pineapple juice240ml (1 cup)1.3426ml (1.77 cup)2,031ml (8.46 cup)
Oatmeal, cooked234g (1 cup)1.4384g (1.64 cup)1,834g (7.86 cup)
Black tea, brewed240ml (1 cup)0.5-1.3423-1,104ml (1.76-4.6 cup)2,031-5,280ml (8.46-22 cup)
Sweet potato156g (1 cup)0.8447g (2.88 cup)2,145g (13.75 cup)
Pinto beans, cooked172g (1 cup)0.8495g (2.88 cup)2,365g (13.75 cup)

*Note: Manganese content can vary based on growing conditions, soil content, preparation methods, and specific varieties. These values are averages.

Types of Manganese Supplements

Section titled Types of Manganese Supplements
  • Manganese Sulfate: Common form with moderate bioavailability
  • Manganese Gluconate: More bioavailable form, often easier on the digestive system
  • Manganese Chloride: Less common but used in some supplement formulations
  • Manganese Citrate: Well-absorbed form with good bioavailability
  • Manganese Picolinate: Chelated form that may offer enhanced absorption
  • Manganese Glycinate: Amino acid chelate that may have better tolerance and absorption
  • Manganese Aspartate: Another chelated form sometimes used in supplements
  • Manganese in Multimineral Products: Often included in general mineral supplements at lower doses

Considerations When Choosing Supplements

Section titled Considerations When Choosing Supplements
  • Necessity: Check whether supplementation is necessary given dietary intake
  • Dosage: Choose lower doses (1-5 mg) to stay well below the upper limit
  • Form: Consider chelated forms (glycinate, picolinate) for better absorption
  • Potential interactions: Assess risk of interactions with other supplements (especially iron)
  • Quality: Select brands with third-party testing (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab)
  • Combination Products: Manganese is often included in multimineral supplements
  • Timing: Take with food to improve tolerance and absorption
  • Medical Supervision: Consult healthcare provider before supplementing, especially with history of liver disease or neurological conditions

Dr. Huberman and Dr. Patrick generally recommend getting manganese from food sources when possible, with judicious supplementation only when dietary intake is insufficient. Supplementation decisions should be based on dietary assessment and potentially on testing for those at risk of imbalance.

Manganese Optimization Strategies

Section titled Manganese Optimization Strategies
  • Vitamin C synergy: Consume manganese-rich foods with vitamin C sources
  • Avoid high-dose iron supplements: Take iron supplements at different times from manganese-rich meals
  • Balance calcium intake: Excessive calcium can reduce manganese absorption
  • Consider phytates: Soaking, sprouting, or fermenting high-phytate foods can increase mineral bioavailability
  • Cooking method awareness: Some cooking methods may reduce manganese content in foods
  • Moderate fiber with supplements: Very high fiber meals may slightly reduce mineral absorption
  • Support gut health: Healthy gut function supports optimal mineral absorption
  • Focus on whole foods: Unprocessed foods generally retain more manganese
  • Include nuts and seeds: Regular consumption of pecans, hazelnuts provides bioavailable manganese
  • Incorporate whole grains: Brown rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat are good sources
  • Daily tea consumption: Black tea provides a notable amount of manganese
  • Include leafy greens: Spinach and other leafy vegetables offer manganese along with other nutrients
  • Tropical fruits: Pineapple is exceptionally high in manganese
  • Occasional seafood: Include mussels and other shellfish periodically for animal-based manganese
  • Balance plant and animal sources: Diverse intake ensures adequate absorption
  • Herbal tea consideration: Some herbal teas can contribute to manganese intake

Supplement Strategies for Optimal Energy

Section titled Supplement Strategies for Optimal Energy
  • Testing before supplementing: Consider RBC mineral analysis to assess status
  • Low dose approach: If supplementing, start with 1-2 mg/day
  • Multimineral selection: Choose products with balanced mineral ratios
  • Timing strategy: Take with breakfast or lunch rather than evening
  • Cycling approach: Some practitioners recommend periodic use rather than continuous
  • Monitor for benefits/side effects: Assess energy, cognitive function, and any negative reactions
  • Consider cofactors: Supplement alongside key cofactors when appropriate
  • Whole food concentrate options: Food-based supplements may offer better tolerance
  • Vitamin C: Enhances manganese absorption and works synergistically in antioxidant functions
  • Vitamin B complex: B vitamins work with manganese in metabolic processes
  • Vitamin K: Works alongside manganese for bone health
  • Copper: Functions with manganese in certain enzyme systems
  • Zinc: Balanced intake supports overall trace mineral utilization
  • Magnesium: Supports energy production alongside manganese
  • Selenium: Works with manganese in antioxidant systems
  • Choline: Supports manganese functions in lipid metabolism
  • Iron: Important to maintain balanced iron-manganese ratios
  • Manganese requirements increase during pregnancy and lactation
  • AI increases to 2.0 mg/day during pregnancy and 2.6 mg/day during lactation
  • Adequate manganese important for fetal skeletal development
  • Excessive intake should be avoided as manganese crosses the placenta
  • Manganese is secreted in breast milk
  • Focus on food sources rather than supplements during pregnancy
  • Consult healthcare provider before supplementation

Medical Conditions Affecting Manganese

Section titled Medical Conditions Affecting Manganese
  • Liver disease: Impairs manganese excretion, increasing risk of toxicity
  • Iron deficiency anemia: May increase manganese absorption and retention
  • Chronic digestive disorders: May affect absorption or excretion
  • Parkinson’s disease: Requires careful management of manganese intake
  • Osteoporosis: May benefit from optimal manganese status
  • Diabetes: Manganese status may affect glucose metabolism
  • Epilepsy: Some research suggests manganese may influence seizure threshold
  • Iron supplements: Compete for absorption with manganese
  • Calcium supplements: May reduce manganese absorption
  • Antacids: May decrease absorption of manganese
  • Antibiotics: Some may form complexes with manganese affecting absorption
  • Anticonvulsants: May interact with manganese metabolism
  • Oral contraceptives: May affect manganese status
  • Laxatives: Chronic use may reduce mineral absorption including manganese
  • Aim for at least the AI of 2.3 mg/day; athletic individuals may benefit from 3.0-5.0 mg/day
  • Include 1-2 servings of manganese-rich foods daily (oats, brown rice, nuts, or legumes)
  • Consider monitoring manganese status if performance issues or health concerns arise
  • If supplementing, limit to 2-3 mg/day within a multimineral formula
  • Balance with other minerals, particularly iron and zinc
  • Test for mineral status annually if engaged in high-level athletic training
  • Focus on whole food sources rather than isolated supplements when possible
  • Be mindful of occupational exposure if working in industrial settings
  • Target the AI of 1.8 mg/day; active women may benefit from 2.0-4.0 mg/day
  • Include manganese-rich foods daily, with emphasis on nuts, whole grains, and leafy greens
  • Be aware of potential interactions with iron status, particularly during menstruation
  • Consider testing if experiencing fatigue, bone health issues, or unusual metabolic symptoms
  • If supplementing, generally limit to 1-2 mg/day within a balanced formula
  • Pay special attention to manganese-iron balance during reproductive years
  • Increase to 2.0 mg during pregnancy and 2.6 mg during lactation from food sources when possible
  • Consider seasonal intake of manganese-rich fruits like pineapple
  • Sedentary: Standard AI is usually sufficient
  • Moderately Active: Slight increase may be beneficial (up to 3 mg/day)
  • Athletic/Intense Training: May benefit from upper end of range (3-5 mg/day)
  • Endurance Athletes: Focus on adequate intake to support metabolic demands
  • Recovery Phases: Emphasis on consistent intake to support tissue repair
  • Balance with hydration: Proper hydration supports mineral utilization during activity

Manganese for Cognitive Performance

Section titled Manganese for Cognitive Performance
  • Manganese is essential for proper brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis
  • Optimal levels support protection against oxidative stress in brain tissue
  • Research shows connections between manganese status and cognitive processing
  • Involved in the metabolism of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter for focus and motivation
  • Supports glutamine synthetase activity in the brain
  • Plays role in protecting neurons from free radical damage
  • May support maintenance of cognitive function with aging
  • Important for GABA synthesis and function
  • Focus on consistent, adequate intake rather than high-dose supplementation
  • Include manganese-rich foods in morning meals to support daytime cognitive function
  • Pair with antioxidant-rich foods to support overall brain health
  • Monitor for signs of either insufficient or excess intake
  • Consider testing if cognitive symptoms are present
  • Balance with other cognitive-supporting nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins
  • Support overall antioxidant status through diverse nutrient intake
  • Consider the cognitive benefits of manganese-rich tea consumption

Manganese for Energy Production

Section titled Manganese for Energy Production
  • Critical role in glucose metabolism and utilization
  • Supports enzymes involved in pyruvate metabolism
  • Component of superoxide dismutase protecting mitochondria from oxidative damage
  • Involved in ATP synthesis and energy transfer
  • Supports gluconeogenesis when necessary
  • Helps maintain proper insulin function for energy regulation
  • Supports thyroid function which regulates metabolic rate
  • Contributes to overall metabolic flexibility
  • Include manganese-rich foods at breakfast to support daily energy production
  • Pair with B-complex vitamins for synergistic effects on metabolism
  • Ensure adequate carbohydrate metabolism by maintaining optimal manganese status
  • Support mitochondrial health through balanced trace mineral intake
  • Consider timing of manganese-rich foods around periods of high energy demand
  • Monitor energy levels when adjusting dietary patterns that affect manganese
  • Ensure proper hydration for optimal nutrient utilization
  • Combine with magnesium for comprehensive support of energy pathways
  • Dr. Huberman emphasizes the role of trace minerals including manganese in supporting brain energy metabolism
  • Dr. Rhonda Patrick has discussed the importance of manganese for mitochondrial protection via MnSOD
  • Dr. Paul Saladino notes the balance between adequate manganese intake and avoiding excess
  • Research suggests optimal manganese status supports glucose utilization during exercise
  • Emerging evidence points to manganese’s role in metabolic health and energy regulation

Manganese is a critical trace mineral involved in numerous enzyme systems, playing essential roles in antioxidant defense, metabolism, bone formation, and neurological function.

  • Getting Enough: Most people can achieve adequate intake through a varied diet rich in whole foods
  • Avoiding Excess: Stay below the upper limit of 11 mg/day, being especially cautious with supplements
  • Best Approach: Focus on food sources like nuts, whole grains, leafy greens, and occasional shellfish
  • Form Matters: When supplementing, consider chelated forms in low doses as part of a balanced mineral supplement
  • Energy Optimization: Ensure optimal status to support glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function
  • Cognitive Enhancement: Maintain balanced levels to support neurotransmitter synthesis and brain antioxidant systems
  • Synergistic Approach: Combine with appropriate cofactors and balance with other minerals, especially iron

Remember that individual nutritional needs vary based on activity level, health status, medications, and genetic factors. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation or if you have underlying health concerns, particularly liver disease or neurological conditions.