Manganese

Manganese

Functions

·           Manganese is essential for normal bone structure, reproduction and the normal functioning of the central nervous system.

·           Manganese activates isocitrate dehydrogenase and phosphotransferases.

·           Pyruvate carboxylase and superoxide dismutase contain tightly bound manganese.

·           Manganese ions activate glycosyl transferases which is concerned with synthesis of muco polysaccharides of cartilages and also associated with the synthesis of glycoproteins.

·           Arginase an enzyme which is involved in the urea cycle is activated by manganese ions.

Sources

Nuts and whole grains are rich sources and vegetables and fruits are good sources of manganese.

Requirements

The average dietary intake of 2.5 to 9.0 mg/day is sufficient to meet the daily needs.

Absorption and excretion

Manganese is readily absorbed in the small intestine. Normally 3 to 4 percent of manganese present in the diet is absorbed. Large quantity of manganese is excreted mostly in the feces. Only very small quantities of manganese is excreted in the urine.

Deficiency

The deficiency of manganese leads to impaired growth and skeletal abnormalities.