Manganese
The adult body contains about 20 mg of manganese, found mainly in the liver, pancreas pituitary gland and bone.
Although it is considered a dietary essential, manganese is also toxic at high levels.
Manganese functions like other trace elements as an essential part of cell enzymes that catalyze any important metabolic reactions.
Absorption and retention of manganese are associated with serum ferritin concentration.
Manganese deficiency is rare, but it has been reported in cases of diabetes and pancreatic insufficiency and in protein-energy malnutrition states such as kwashiorkor.
Manganese toxicity occurs as an industrial disease, inhalation toxicity, in miners and other workers with prolonged exposure to manganese dust.
The excess manganese accumulates in the liver and central nervous system, producing severe neuromuscular symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease.
The best food sources of manganese are of plant origin. Whole grain, cereal products and teas are the richest food sources, and fruits and vegetables are somewhat less rich.
Dairy products, meat fish and poultry are poor sources of manganese.
Manganese
