Minerals

Manganese

Also called: manganese

A trace mineral for bones and metabolism.

Why people take it
Bone and joint products.
What the evidence says
Deficiency is very rare; no proven benefit from extra.
How it is usually taken
Usually 2 to 5 mg a day; the upper limit is 11 mg. Found in whole grains, nuts and tea.
Be careful
High intake can harm the nervous system. Keep under 11 mg a day.
Medicines it can interact with
Can reduce absorption of quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics.

Other minerals

Common questions

What is Manganese?

A trace mineral for bones and metabolism.

Why do people take Manganese?

Bone and joint products.

Does Manganese work?

Deficiency is very rare; no proven benefit from extra.

How much Manganese do people take?

Usually 2 to 5 mg a day; the upper limit is 11 mg. Found in whole grains, nuts and tea.

Is Manganese safe?

High intake can harm the nervous system. Keep under 11 mg a day.

Does Manganese interact with medicines?

Can reduce absorption of quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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