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Manganese may not be the first, or for that matter, be on your mind at all when we talk about essential nutrients. However, it has an essential role in fastening your metabolic activities. Some of the early manganese deficiency symptoms are chipping of the nails as well as hair fall. Other signs like bone deformity and stunted growth point towards an insufficiency. However, exactly what is manganese used for in the body? Do we really need it? To start with, what is Manganese and how can it cause an imbalance?

What Is Manganese?

Manganese is a mineral that’s important enough for the nourishment of the human body. However, a manganese deficiency or high levels of manganese can be toxic. A lot of people confuse manganese (Mn) with magnesium (Mg). But, there’s a difference between the two.

Magnesium is essential for over 300 processes in the human body whereas manganese is used in less amount. On one hand, the excess of manganese can damage the heart health as well as lead to seizures. On the other hand, manganese deficiency symptoms can lead to severe weakness.

What Causes Manganese Deficiency?

The following medical conditions can endanger the manganese levels in your body:

Epilepsy
Osteoporosis
Diabetes
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Hemodialysis
Perthes disease
Phenylketonuria

What Are The Manganese Deficiency Symptoms?

Poor bone growth or deformities
Slow or stunted growth
Low fertility
Glucose intolerance
Abnormal metabolism of carbs and fat
High cholesterol levels
Skin rash
Seizures
Weakness, nausea, as well as dizziness
Iron deficiency
Weak hair and nails

Effects of Manganese Deficiency

What is manganese used for in the body? Here are 5 major functions of manganese along with how they can create havoc when imbalanced:

1. It Can Affect The Bone Development.

The human body requires manganese for the development of healthy cartilage as well as the bones. Therefore, manganese deficiency can lead to abnormalities in the skeletal system.

2. It Lowers Metabolic Activities.

Manganese metabolizes carbohydrates, amino acids as well as cholesterol in the body. When there’s a manganese deficiency, the fat accumulates and results in heart problems.

3. It Increases Oxidative Stress.

Oxidative stress in the body can damage the organs and lead to their failure. Therefore, avoid manganese deficiency.

4. It Slows Wound Healing Process.

What is manganese used for in the human body? Manganese aids the production of collagen which is responsible for a faster wound healing process. When there’s a lack, the process slows down.

5. It Can Lead To Diabetes.

One of the major manganese deficiency symptoms includes glucose intolerance. Several studies show how patients of Type-2 diabetes have low levels of manganese serum.

What’s The Daily Intake?

The recommended dietary allowance is said to be around 2.3 mg daily for men. However, it’s about 1.8 mg for women. However, make sure you aren’t overloading supplements. An excess too can be harmful and about 11 mg daily is acceptable. Else, it can lead to neurotoxicity.

Note: Articles on Ayurvedum are solely for the purpose of sharing the goodness of Ayurveda and bringing awareness on natural and healthy living. Please do not substitute it for professional medical advice. Ingredients discussed can interfere with certain medications. So, before using anything to treat yourself, always consult an Ayurveda doctor or practitioner.