Manganese is a trace mineral that helps promote the proper function of the pituitary gland as well as aiding in the proper absorption of carbohydrates and protein. While only a small amount of the mineral is required in order to maintain a healthy balance, its absence can have severe repercussions. Cuts won't heal as well, a woman's menstrual cycle may become irregular, and it can cause memory and mood changes.
One of the more noticeable manganese deficiency symptoms has to do with the proper healing of wounds such as cuts and scratches. Since the mineral aids in the creation of collagen, the deficiency will make it more difficult for the natural healing process to take place. While a relatively small problem when dealing with a surface cut or scratch, a person who is deficient may find that healing from invasive surgery is much more difficult that it would be if manganese levels were within a normal range.
Women may experience problems with their menstrual cycles as well. Menstruation may become erratic in both timing and in severity. A manganese deficiency may also cause problems for new mothers as well, since the mineral is important to proper lactation.
In addition to physical signs of a deficiency, there are also mental and emotional signs that indicate a lack of manganese in the body. Memory may be negatively affected, and the person may have an increasing feeling of constant irritation. A sense of apathy may also develop, preventing the individual from finding any pleasure in activities that are usually quite enjoyable. The individual is likely to appear constantly tired, uninterested in social activities, and somewhat withdrawn.
There are a number of situations that can lead to a manganese deficiency. Excess consumption of iron and calcium can deplete the mineral within a relatively short period of time, and too much phosphorus will have the same effect. Poor diet can also lead to deficiencies.
Fortunately, the process for correcting a deficiency of this type is relatively simple. Adding more green leafy vegetables to the daily diet will often relieve the symptoms and eliminate the imbalance. Apricots, nuts, avocados, and kidney beans are also excellent sources of the mineral. Barley and the yolks of raw eggs can aid in dealing with a deficiency of this type as well. Herbs such as ginger, chickweed, and bilberry will also have a positive effect.
