Manganese in toxic concentrations leads to the deficiency of calcium, iron and magnesium as it competes with iron and magnesium for nutrient uptake.
Manganese in human body
Manganese (Mn) is the 12th most abundant element on the earth. Mn is essential to human health, acting as a co-factor in the active centres of various enzymes, and is required for normal development, maintenance of nerve and immune cell functions, and regulation of blood sugar and vitamins, among other functions. The highest concentrations of Mn are present in the bone, liver, kidney, pancreas, and adrenal and pituitary glands
- Inhaled manganese can cause inflammation of the lungs.
- Symptoms might include cough and bronchitis.
- People have also experienced a toxic effect of manganese when levels in drinking water are too high.
- Manganese can also have a neurotoxic effect in large amounts.
