Manganese

Our 11th mineral (in alphabetical order). Trace element. Chemical symbol: Mn. Our understanding of manganese is still incomplete, but it may prove to be one of the most important nutrients in human pathology. Probably an antioxidant mineral.

Functions/Benefits
Necessary for normal bone structure.
Important in the formation of thyroxin.
Important in the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Important in the production of sex hormones.
Necessary for glucose metabolism.
Aids wound healing.

Deficiency Symptoms
Fatigue.
Poor memory.
Nervous irritability.
Ataxia.
Related to diabetes - heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Bone demineralization.
Impaired growth.

Natural sources
Cereals. Tea. Green leaf vegetables. holewheat bread. Legumes. Nuts.

US RDA: 2.5-7mg (milligram)
EU RDA: no official figures
Supplements 2-10mg

Toxicity
Very rare. But may include lethargy, involuntary movements. Posture problems. Coma. Environmental toxicity may be possible.