Manganese is an essential trace nutrient. The human body contains about 10 milligrams of manganese, which is stored mainly in the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and bones.In the human brain, manganese is bound to manganese metalloproteins. Manganese activates enzymes responsible for the use of several key nutrients, including B vitamins (biotin, thiamin), vitamin C, and choline. It aids in the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, facilitates protein and carbohydrate metabolism, and may also participate in the production of sex hormones and maintaining reproductive health.
Manganese has been examined as a treatment for a variety of conditions, including osteoarthritis and wound healing. However, manganese is often used in combination with other vitamins and/or minerals. Therefore, the effects of manganese alone are difficult to determine.
Chronic exposure to excessive manganese levels can lead to a variety of psychiatric and motor disturbances, termed manganism.
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