In addition to carbohydrates, proteins, fats, or vitamins, minerals are also included in the nutrients needed by the body. Even though it is needed in small amounts, minerals play an important role in maintaining physiological functions. One example of a mineral, manganese, has a role in the metabolism of amino acids, cholesterol, glucose and carbohydrates. Manganese also plays a role in bone formation. As quoted from Medical News Today, here are the health benefits of manganese:

• Provides antioxidants
  Manganese can help form antioxidant enzymes called superoxide dismutase (SOD) to protect the body from free radicals. SOD is known to break free radicals into smaller, harmless components. Results of studies also showed that SOD can reduce some types of inflammation.
   
• Maintaining bone health
  Manganese can help maintain bones and make it stronger and more dense when combined with other nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. Several studies have shown that manganese can help make bones become more dense.
   
• Maintain blood sugar
  For people with diabetes, manganese can help reduce and maintain blood sugar levels by increasing insulin production in the body. According to studies published in Endocrinology, manganese can help the pancreas in producing insulin.
   
• Accelerate wound healing
  Together with vitamin K, manganese can help the formation of blood clots that accelerate the process of wound healing.

You can feel all these benefits if the needs of manganese in the body are met. Adults need at least 1.8-2.3 mg of manganese per day. You can get manganese by consuming pineapple, beans, spinach, green and black tea, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, raisins, whole wheat bread and brown rice.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Adobe Stock Image

Source(s):

• Medical News Today - What are the benefits and effects of manganese? (2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325636.php, 5 July 2019.