Manganese is a mineral that plays a role in maintaining blood sugar levels, may protect against some diseases and cancers, as well as boosting the immune system.

Manganese triggers the activity of enzymes in the body, including those that help proteins to be used as food, and one that breaks down free radicals that can cause heart disease. It also assists in the production of sex hormones and helps maintain healthy joints and bones structure. It assists in the production of the thyroid hormones that control the rate of the body’s metabolism and is thought to help balance blood sugar levels. Manganese also aids the formation of collagen, which helps heal wounds.

No RDA has been set, but we probably need 2.5-5mg a day. That’s usually found in your daily diet, but most multivitamin and antioxidant combinations contain some manganese.

Whole-wheat bread, nuts, especially macadamias, hazelnuts, almonds, cashews and pecans, soya beans, chick-peas, brown rice and tea.

Poor resistance to infection, dizziness, poor balance, poor memory, skin rashes and painful joints.

Any excess manganese will simply not be absorbed by your body, which makes this one of the few minerals that aren’t toxic to the body in large doses.

Boosting low manganese levels may help control epileptic seizures. It may also lower the risk of osteoporosis.