From the essential minerals, there are a few that we do not pay attention to for one reason or another. Many believe they are not just as useful or do not matter, and one of the minerals under that category is the trace mineral, Manganese.
Manganese is that mineral that we all know exists, but we just do not bother to give it the honour it deserves or at least actively try to get it into our diet. Many do not even consider it to be one of the essential minerals. However, experts have proved that the quiet kid on the block does more than we think. Manganese is highly needed for the eyes, brain, and entire nervous system to function properly.
Experts at yoursherbs.com named 6 reasons why this mineral benefits one’s overall health.
1. Works With Other Nutrients To Improve Bone Health
Manganese has its primary function in the body. However, it is known to also be a good team player who works well with other nutrients so the body can perform better than expected. Combining this mineral with others like zinc, copper, and calcium can help support bone mineral density and even reduce spinal bone loss in aging women.
2. Reduces Risks Of Diseases As It Contains Strong Antioxidant Properties
The antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, known as SOD, is one of the body’s most powerful and important antioxidants, and Manganese is a part of this antioxidant. The primary function of these antioxidants is to protect the cells from harmful molecules which can cause several conditions, from heart diseases to even quick aging. What this antioxidant basically does is counter the effects of these molecules by converting them into smaller sizes that are incapable of causing damage to one’s cells.
3. Reduces Risks Of Inflammation
As a very powerful antioxidant, this essential mineral is more than capable of reducing inflammation. Studies show that the SOD, which is a very potent antioxidant superoxide dismutase, has the potential to treat several inflammatory diseases, osteoarthritis for example. Osteoarthritis is a disease that causes serious pains in the joints and also leads to loss of cartilage. Synovitis is the membrane inflammation in the joints and is known to be one of the primary drivers of this disease.
4. Assists The Regulation Of Blood Sugar
Experts say that this essential mineral assists the body in regulating blood sugar levels. In the body, Manganese is highly concentrated in the pancreas, where insulin production occurs. This insulin is responsible for separating the blood from sugar and stabilizing the blood sugar. Research has proven that people with diabetes mostly have lower Manganese levels.
5. Assists In Nutrient Metabolism
Manganese plays important roles in several chemical processes. For one, it helps with the digestion and usage of proteins and amino acids and helps the body put Vitamins C and E into proper use. It is also very involved in the metabolism of energy-giving foods and cholesterol. Generally, Manganese is a cofactor in different processes, from energy production to immune health, brain regulation, and reproduction.
6. It Helps In Reducing Menstrual Pain And Symptoms
Studies show that Manganese can help reduce premenstrual symptoms when combined with calcium. While conducting a study, women with low blood levels of Manganese were provided calcium before their menstrual cycle. However, the only results they got were negative, as the women only experienced more pain and increased symptoms of premenstrual cramps. However, the results were better when tested on women with reasonable levels of both minerals as they had close to no premenstrual symptoms or pain the entire time.
