Manganese is involved in reproductive functions and helps produce mother’s milk. In humans, gastrointestinal absorption of manganese is greatly increased in pregnant mother and in newborns.
The manganese content is most valuable for mothers during times of lactation as it stimulates gland secretions that promote the development of mother’s milk.
Manganese occurs predominately in the whey fraction of human milk (71%), most of which is associated with lactoferrin. Eighteen percent is found in the lipid layer and 11% is associated with casein.
Owing to the weak binding of manganese to some organic ligands, most manganese species in human milk are considered to be labile.
The largest quantities of manganese are found in avocadoes, nuts, and seeds, seaweed and whole grains. This mineral may also found in blueberries, egg yolks, legumes, dried peas, pineapples, spinach and green leafy vegetables.
Manganese function in the production of mother’s milk
