Manganese
Manganese is an essential trace mineral needed for healthy skin, bone, and cartilage formation, as well as glucose tolerance. It also helps activate superoxide dismutase (SOD)—an important antioxidant enzyme.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Tardive Dyskinesia | For prevention: 15 mg daily while taking anti-psychotic medication; treat under a doctor's supervision: 60 mg daily |  [2 stars] Supplementing with manganese may prevent onset or help reverse the condition. |
Goiter | 800 IU daily |  [1 star] Deficiencies of manganese can contribute to iodine-deficiency goiter. Supplementing with manganese may help. |
Hypoglycemia | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Manganese helps control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, and since there are similarities in the way the body regulates high and low blood sugar levels, it might be helpful for hypoglycemia as well. |
Osgood-Schlatter Disease (Vitamin B6, Zinc) | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Some doctors have reported good results using a combination of zinc, manganese, and vitamin B6 for people with Osgood-Schlatter disease. |
Osteoporosis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] A combination of minerals including manganese was reported to halt bone loss in one study. Some doctors recommend manganese to people concerned with bone mass maintenance. |
Sprains and Strains | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Trace minerals, such as manganese, are known to be important in the biochemistry of tissue healing. |
Type 1 Diabetes | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Supplementing with manganese may increase antioxidant defenses and improve blood sugar control in those with type 1 diabetes. |
Type 2 Diabetes | 1.8 to 2.6 mg daily | [1 star] Manganese is important as an antioxidant and metabolic regulator. Supplementation to prevent deficiency may be helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.