The health benefits of manganese lead to overall wellness in a variety of ways. Here is a list of the most significant benefits that have been researched:
Healthy Bones: Manganese is essential for proper and normal growth of human bone structure. It is a very effective mineral in aiding in the increase of the mineral density of spinal bone. This is especially true and useful for post-menopausal women. Many women suffer from manganese deficiency after they go through menopause, so increasing the amount of trace minerals that women consume is an important factor in preventing fractures. Although research has yet to consistently prove that manganese can prevent osteoporosis, it is believed to be one of the contributing factors that slow down the progress of that debilitating disease.
Free Radicals: Due to the antioxidant properties of manganese, the health benefits of manganese include a special function of monitoring the activity of free radicals in human body. These free radicals are capable of damaging human cells and causing cancer and other devastating diseases, so adding manganese supplements or food rich in this mineral is a very good choice, particularly if you have other risk factors for various diseases.
Sugar level: Manganese has also exhibited efficiency in controlling the level of sugar in human blood. This may further prevent the occurrence of certain diseases like diabetes. To control the level of sugar in the blood, manganese normalizes insulin synthesis and secretion, and the unpredictable drops in blood sugar can be better regulated, providing a more normal and functional life for diabetics.
Epilepsy: Low levels of manganese can act as a trigger for epileptic seizures. Manganese supplements can aid in controlling the possibility of any minor or major epileptic seizure. The exact mechanism for this is not fully understood, but manganese has been shown to act as a vasodilator in various studies, and there are some researchers who believe that this is the key to the anti-epileptic quality.
Metabolism: Regulation of the body’s metabolism is one of the vital functions of manganese. Manganese-activated enzymes help in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids, and carbohydrates. It is also important for the metabolism of Vitamins like Vitamin E and Vitamin B-1. Furthermore, it helps the liver properly function and run smoothly, as well as being an essential part of the metabolism of glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body, and a key part of DNA polymerase.
Inflammation and Sprains: Manganese is a widely known remedy for sprains as well as inflammation as it helps in increasing the level of superoxide dismutase. This increased level is due to the antioxidant properties of the mineral. Superoxide dismutase, also known as SOD, is normally found in very low levels in patients with arthritis. SOD has anti-inflammatory qualities which arthritis sufferers desperately need, so adding manganese back into the body to increase synthesis and function of SOD has been connected with a decrease in symptoms of this condition, according to various studies.
Preventing Osteoporosis: Manganese supplements are connected to the relief of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis syndrome because it is an essential mineral that has been proven to add to bone density and overall mineral density. However, as an individual element in the creation and repair of bones, studies are still somewhat lacking. In human testing, at least, most bone health research is done with a complete panel of trace minerals, not just manganese. Further studies have to be done on the specific roles and mechanisms of manganese on the body.
Alleviating PMS syndrome: It is an unfortunate but unavoidable fact that many women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In these monthly situations, manganese helps to alleviate the mood swings, headaches, depression and irritability to a considerable extent. Studies have shown a connection between low levels of various trace minerals, including manganese, in women who suffered from particularly severe PMS symptoms, so supplementation is recommended. That being said, the impact of manganese on the hormonal function of the body can be quite noticeable, so speak with a doctor before using manganese supplementation to help with PMS, since that is also heavily connected to hormones.
Thyroid Health: Manganese is an important co-factor for many different enzymes, and it is an essential component of thyroxine, arguably the most important hormone in the thyroid gland. Proper functioning of the thyroid gland and its hormonal synthesis benefits a wide variety of health issues in the body, including weight loss, appetite, metabolism, and organ system efficiency.
Aids in vitamin absorption:Manganese helps absorb vital vitamins like vitamin B and E and minerals like magnesium. This is due to the role of manganese in the enzymatic reactions that are required to absorb and utilize vitamins taken in from food. Manganese is one of the most versatile co-factors for enzymatic reactions, and if there is a risk of having a deficiency in certain vitamins, then be sure to increase levels of manganese, as long as they are still within safe and non-toxic levels.
Brain and nervous system:Manganese is essential for the healthy functioning of the brain and it is also used to treat specific nervous disorders. This is most likely due to the superoxide dismutase, which scavenges free radicals throughout the body, including the neural pathways. Oxidation byproducts like free radicals are everywhere in the body, and the brain can be negatively affected just as easily as other parts of the body, therefore powerful antioxidants like SOD are required. Aside from its antioxidant role, manganese can also bind with neurotransmitters and stimulate faster or more efficient transmission of electrical impulses throughout the body, in effect, speeding up cognitive function!
Glucose Metabolism: Manganese aids in regulating glucose metabolism in the human body. This is one of the most important health benefits of manganese to provide proper resources to different body parts, which increases energy and functional efficiency. Also, when glucose is properly absorbed and utilized by organ systems and muscles, there is less of a chance of excess buildup, which is dangerous for patients with diabetics. Proper management of diabetes is definitely aided by proper manganese levels in the body.
Digestive tract: Manganese is a mineral, which is helpful in maintaining the functioning of the digestive track. This further improves the absorption of fat in the process of digestion, and also reduces issues like constipation and bowel discomfort. Manganese is also important in terms of efficient food utilization and the transformation into usable energy.
A Few Words of Warning: Manganese is one of only three toxic trace minerals in the human body, meaning that we cannot have too little or too much. Be sure to never overdo on manganese supplementation, because it can lead to a wide array of very dangerous conditions and diseases, some of which are fatal. Manganese overdose can lead to similar symptoms to Parkinson’s disease, or to the disease itself. Also, for those with liver conditions, be careful not to take in too much manganese, since the liver will have trouble getting rid of it, which can lead to psychosis, mental disorders, and tremors/spasms. Finally, if you have anemia, your body tries to absorb as much manganese as possible, which can be dangerous, so monitor your intake closely!
Germanium
Over 95% of my hair analysis patients are depleted in germanium. So, what IS this natural element, and why is it important to your health?
Nutritionally, the natural element germanium has been known to aid in the prevention of cancer and AIDS. Certain compounds of germanium have toxic effects against certain bacteria. In its organic form, germanium is being hailed as one of the greatest new developments in the nutritional treatment of cancer.
The estimated daily intake for germanium is 1 mg. Germanium has been reported to improve the immune system, boost the body’s oxygen supply, make a person feel more energetic, and destroy damaging free radicals. Germanium also protects against radiation.
Organic germanium is a biological-response modifier. This means it enables the body to change its response to tumors, which has therapeutic benefits. Germanium does not directly attack cancer cells, but stimulates the body’s immune system, making it effective in the treatment of cancer as well as other degenerative diseases.
A number of human cancer trials have been conducted with organic germanium. A summary of Phase I and Phase II human clinical trials reveals that orally administered organic germanium induces interferon production, restores previously impaired immune response, and has shown extremely low toxicity.
In 1945, Dr. Kazuhiko Asai formed the Coal Research Institute in Japan. Learning of reports from Russia about germanium’s near-miraculous powers of rejuvenation and its use in the treatment of cancer, Dr. Asai decided at this time to investigate its biological properties.
Dr. Asai’s original research with organic germanium extracted from natural plant sources convinced him that it could result in remarkable health benefits. However, it soon became apparent that extracting the amounts necessary to treat cancer and other diseases was too costly.
Nonetheless, Dr. Asai succeeded in developing a process for producing an organic germanium, Ge-132, that was chemically identical to the form he had extracted from plants. The chemical name for this organic germanium compound is bis-carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide. Since this time, several other Japanese companies have patented other processes for the production of organic germanium.
Many herbs and medicinal plants traditionally used in healing–such as ginseng, garlic, comfrey, and aloe– contain substantial amounts of germanium. The amount of germanium in a plant varies according to the quality of the soil in which it grows. Adding germanium to the soil enhances plant growth.
Germanium facilitates the movement of oxygen across cellular membranes to deliver oxygen into the cells. Dr. Otto Warburg, Nobel prize-winning cancer researcher, discovered that cancer cells do not metabolize oxygen properly. Flooding cells with oxygen may retard the growth of cancer cells or even help return them to normal.
A study published in the Journal of Interferon Research, concluded “…organic germanium restores the normal function of T-cells, B-lymphocytes, natural killer cell activity, and the numbers of antibody-forming cells…. Organic germanium has unique physiological activities without any significant side effects.”
Germanium has been used to treat depression, arthritis, vision problems, elevated blood pressure, heavy metal poisoning, and cancer.
Germanium ores are rare. Germanium is a hard, grayish-white element that has a metallic luster and the same crystal structure as diamond. In addition, germanium is a semiconductor, with electrical properties between those of a metal and an insulator. In its pure state, this metalloid is crystalline, brittle and retains its luster in air at room temperature.
Germanium is an important semiconductor, mainly used in transistors and integrated circuits. Germanium forms many compounds. Germanium oxide is added to glass to increase the index of refraction; such glass is used in wide-angle lenses and in infrared devices.
Gallium
Solid gallium is a blue-gray metal with orthorhombic crystalline structure; very pure gallium has a stunning silvery color. Gallium is solid at normal room temperatures, but as well as mercury, cesium, and rubidium it becomes liquid when heated slightly. Solid gallium is soft enough to be cut with a knife. It is stable in air and water; but it reacts with and dissolves in acids and alkalis.
Applications
Liquid gallium wets porcelain and glass surfaces; it forms a bright, highly reflective surface when coated on glass. It can be used to create brilliant mirrors. Gallium easily alloys with most metals, so it is used to form low-melting alloys. The plutonium pits of nuclear weapons employ an alloy with gallium to stabilize the allotropes of plutonium.
Analog integrated circuits are the most common application for gallium, with optoelectronic devices (mostly laser diodes and light-emitting diodes) as the second largest end use. Gallium has semiconductor properties, especially as gallium arsendite (GaAs). This can convert electricity to light and is used in light emitting diodes (LEDs) for electronic display and watches.
Gallium is used in some high temperature thermometers.
Gallium in the environment
Gallium does not exist in pure form in nature, and gallium compounds are not a primary source of extraction. Gallium is more abundant than lead but much less accessible bacause it has not been selectively concentrated into minerals by any geological process, so it tends to be widely dispersed. Several ores, such as the aluminum ore bauxite, contain small amount of gallium, and coal may have a relatively high gallium content.
Health effects of gallium
Gallium is an element found in the body, but it occurs in a very small amount. For example, in a person with a mass of seventy kilograms, there are 0.7 milligrams of gallium in the body. If this amount of gallium was condensed into a cube, the cube would only be 0.49 millimeters long on one side. It has no proven benefit towards the function of the body, and it most likely is only present due to small traces in the natural environment, in water, and in residue on vegetables and fruits. Several vitamins and commercially distributed waters have been known to contain trace amounts of gallium with less than one part per million. Pure gallium is not a harmful substance for humans to touch. It has been handled many times only for the simple pleasure of watching it melt by the heat emitted from a human hand. However, it is known to leave a stain on hands. Even the gallium radioactive compound, gallium [67Ga] citrate, can be injected into the body and used for gallium scanning without harmful effects. Although it is not harmful in small amounts, gallium should not be purposefully consumed in large doses. Some gallium compounds can actually be very dangerous, however. For example, acute exposure to gallium(III) chloride can cause throat irritation, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and its fumes can cause even very serious conditions such as pulmonary edema and partial paralysis.
Environmental effects of gallium
One controversy with gallium involves nuclear weapons and pollution. Gallium is used to hold some nuclear bomb pits together. However, when the pits are cut and plutonium oxide powder is formed, the gallium remains in the plutonium. The plutonium then becomes unusable in fuel because the gallium is corrosive to several other elements. If the gallium is removed, however, the plutonium becomes useful again. The problem is that the process to remove the gallium contributes to a huge amount of pollution of water with radioactive substances. Gallium is an ideal element to use in the bomb pits, but pollution is destructive to the earth and to the health of its inhabitants. Even if efforts were taken to remove the pollution from the water, it would significantly increase the costs of the procedure of turning plutonium into a fuel by about 200 million dollars. Scientists are working on another method to clean the plutonium, but it could take years to be completed.
Zinc
Zinc is a metal. It is called an “essential trace element” because very small amounts of zinc are necessary for human health.
Zinc is used for treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency and its consequences, including stunted growth and acute diarrhea in children, and slow wound healing.
It is also used for boosting the immune system, treating the common cold and recurrent ear infections, and preventing lower respiratory infections. It is also used for malaria and other diseases caused by parasites.
Some people use zinc for an eye disease called macular degeneration, for night blindness, and for cataracts. It is also used for asthma; diabetes; high blood pressure; acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); and skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
Other uses include treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), blunted sense of taste (hypogeusia), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), severe head injuries, Crohn’s disease,Alzheimer’s disease, Down syndrome, Hansen’s disease, ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcersand promoting weight gain in people with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa.
Some people use zinc for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), male infertility, erectile dysfunction (ED), weak bones (osteoporosis), rheumatoid arthritis, and muscle crampsassociated with liver disease. It is also used for sickle cell disease and inherited disorders such as acrodermatitis enteropathica, thalassemia, and Wilson’s disease.
Some athletes use zinc for improving athletic performance and strength.
Zinc is also applied to the skin for treating acne, aging skin, herpes simplex infections, and to speed wound healing.
Copper
The health benefits of copper include proper growth, utilization of iron, enzymatic reactions, connective tissues, hair, eyes, ageing and energy production. Apart from these, heart rhythm, thyroid glands, arthritis, wound healing. RBC formation and cholesterol are other health benefits of copper
The health benefits of copper are crucial for healthy existence, as this mineral enables normal metabolic process in association with amino acids and vitamins. Copper cannot be produced within the body and hence needs to be sourced from external food sources. Copper is the third most prevalent mineral in the body and it is mostly carried by the blood plasma protein, Ceruloplasmin. In order to enjoy health benefits of copper, it must be included in diet of an individual.
Deficiency symptoms:
Deficiency of copper can have the following symptoms in human beings:
Some of the other symptoms include lethargy, paleness, sores, edema, stunted growth, hair loss, anorexia, diarrhea, bleeding under the skin and dermatitis. In infant boys, inherited copper deficiency of Menkes’ syndrome can happen rarely, where natural absorption of copper becomes impossible. Early medical intervention is vital in such cases.
Important Sources:
Copper is present in various food sources such as liver, meat, seafood, beans, whole grains soy flour, wheat bran, almonds, avocados, barley, garlic, nuts, oats, blackstrap molasses ,beets and lentils. Copper also reaches human body by drinking water from copper pipes and by using copper cooking wear. Oysters are the richest sources of copper. Copper content is lost because of prolonged storing in tin cans and in food materials that are high in acid content.
Benefits:
Copper has many important roles to play in maintaining a healthy body and some of its benefits include:
Arthritis:
The health benefits of copper relate to its anti-inflammatory actions to assist in reducing the symptoms of arthritis. Market is also flooded with copper bracelets as well as other accessories for the cure of this disease. Copper also works as a home remedy for arthritis i.e. water stored in a copper container overnight accumulates copper traces which are beneficial to strengthen the muscular system.
Proper growth:
Copper is highly essential for normal growth and health. Thus, it is definitely important to include this mineral in balanced form in regular diets of an individual. It is helpful in protection of skeletal, nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Pigmentation to hair and eyes:
Copper is a vital element of the natural dark pigment, melanin, which imparts coloration to skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin can be produced by melanocytes only in the presence of the cuproenzyme called tyrosinase. Intake of copper supplements helps in protecting the graying hair.
Connective tissues:
Copper is an important nutrient that has a significant role in the synthesis of hemoglobin, myelin, body pigment melanin and collagen. It helps to protect the myelin sheath surrounding the nerves. It is also actively involved in the production of an element of connective tissue, elastin.
Brain Stimulation:
Copper is widely known as a brain stimulant. It is also otherwise called “Brain food”. However, copper content in the diet has to be in right proportions. Too much of copper is also not healthy for the brain. Copper has a control function to play for the brain and hence the extent of copper supplement intake has to be balanced.
Utilization of iron and sugar:
Copper helps in the absorption of iron from the intestinal tract and release from its primary storage sites like liver. It also helps in the utilization of sugar in the body.
Enzymatic reactions:
Copper is either an element or a cofactor of as many as 50 different enzymes that take part in various biological reactions within the body. These enzymes can function properly only in the presence of copper.
Helps in stalling ageing:
Copper is a strong antioxidant, which works in the presence of the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase, to safeguard the cell membranes from free radicals.
Increases energy production:
Copper is essential for the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate, which is an energy storehouse of the human body. The cuproenzyme, cytochrome c oxidase, affects the intracellular energy production. It acts as a catalyst in the reduction of molecular oxygen to water, during which the enzyme produces an electrical gradient used by the mitochondria to synthesize the vital energy-storing molecule, ATP.
Bactericidal properties:
Studies have shown that copper can destroy or inhibit the growth of bacterial strains such as E Coli.
Thyroid glands:
Copper has an important role in ensuring the proper functioning of thyroid glands.
RBC formation:
Copper helps in the production of red blood cells hemoglobin and bone.
Immunity:
Copper has an important role in the healing process and thus, ensures better wound healing. Copper acts as an extremely good immunity builder. It also works as a cure to anemic problems.
14.Reduces cholesterol:
Research studies have shown that copper can reduce bad cholesterol level and helps in increasing beneficial cholesterol.
Nickel
Nickel is a naturally occurring mineral found in healthy foods such as nuts, grains, peas, and beans. We have known since the 90s that the human body will also absorb and metabolize nickel if it is taken as an oral supplement [1]. Therefore, nickel is also used as a dietary supplement in liquid mineral tinctures. Nickel is usually ingested in this form to improve iron absorption and treat anemia, and to strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis.
Nickel Research
Nickel is understood to be a vital component in a number of important human biological processes, but its exact role in those processes still remains a mystery . Fortunately, scientific research of this substance has been ongoing, particularly as nickel continues to gain traction as a dietary supplement.
Weight Loss
In particular, nickel is finding new life in contemporary weight loss applications. In 2004, researchers tested on a very basic, biochemical level, the value of nickel as a health-fortifying agent and weight loss supplement. They introduced varying levels of nickel to rabbits and broilers (chickens raised specifically for meat) and compared those animals to a control group that had no nickel. Interestingly, at 50 mg dosages of nickel, the chickens and rabbits were stronger and gained weight at a slightly increased rate. However, as researches proceeded to ramp the dosage up to a comparatively massive 500 mg, the nickel harmed the livers of the animals while impairing digestion and weight gain.This supports the idea that there is a “sweet spot” with nickel intake. Though it can improve absorption and even lead to weight loss, too much can be harmful.
In 2011, two Polish researches theorized that there was a relationship between 16 different weight loss products on the market, and the potential nickel content in those products. After heating and introducing the weight loss products to acid to simulate human digestion, they indeed identified high levels of nickel in the products .
Nickel in Cigarette Smoke
A 2004 study found that, in addition to the growing laundry list of far more dangerous, highly carcinogenic substances in cigarettes, smokers also expose themselves to large doses of extra nickel by smoking. Significantly higher, carcinogenic levels of nickel were found in the urine of smokers over non-smokers [5]. This again speaks to the potential challenge with nickel quantities: Though the positive value of nickel in our diets is undisputed, like with most things, too much nickel may be harmful to us.
Nickel is one of the oldest and most prolific minerals on our planet. It is surprising, then, that we are just scratching the surface when it comes to its potential benefits to human health. From the traditional uses of treating and preventing anemia and osteoporosis, to experimental new weight loss applications, the uses for nickel seem ever-growing. Provided caution is used in meting out dosages, nickel can indeed make us happier, healthier people.
Cobalt
The importance of cobalt in the maintenance of your health is often overlooked. With all the information that surrounds the use of antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals, ignoring this nutrient may hamper your health.
Most of us don’t know or understand the role of cobalt in our bodies. We did a little digging to highlight the importance of the nutrient in your daily diet.
1. Vitamin B12
The most important role of cobalt stands in the production of vitamin B12, also known as ‘Cobalamin’. The human body is unable to produce vitamin B12 on its own and hence needs it from external sources. So, if you’re thinking of popping cobalt supplements without having enough vitamin B12 in your body, you are not doing yourself any good.
2. Nervous Health
Cobalt is also known to aid in the repair of myelin sheaths (the protecting layer covering the nerve cells). This ensures the protection of the nerve cells against the damage of free radicals.
3. Blood Health
Scientists have suggested that cobalt may play a vital role in the absorption of iron in the body, thereby making it available for the formation of hemoglobin and improving blood health.
Cobalt is mostly found in animal proteins and can be obtained by having organ meats, oysters, clams, poultry and milk. However, one should note that excessive consumption of cobalt can lead to an increase in blood volume, which may result in anemia due to the overproduction of red blood cells. It is best to talk to your doctor who can guide you on your requirement for cobalt.
Iron
The health benefits of iron mainly include carrying life-giving oxygen to human blood cells. About two-thirds of the bodily iron is found in hemoglobin. Other health benefits of iron are iron deficiency anemia, anemia of chronic disease, cough, anemia in pregnancy, predialysis anemia and many more.
The health benefits of iron correspond to proper growth of human body and maintaining robust health. It is an essential protein component for metabolism. Body needs iron to produce red blood cells. The human body is capable of preserving 15 % of iron for future use, especially in the case of inadequate diet intake.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Iron deficiency may often cause severe fatigue, body weakness & related health ailments. People with lack of iron cannot perform normal functions to their best abilities. Women and children need more iron than the male counterparts. A person with low iron level is likely to be anemic. Severe iron deficiency may cause progressive skin ailments that may cause brittleness of nails and extra smoothness in tongue area.
Important Sources:
Iron is found in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods i.e. heme or non-heme iron. Legumes, lentils, soy beans, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, cereals, bread, spinach, turnip, sprouts, broccoli and dry fruits also have good iron content. You can also get iron tablets and supplements. Anemic people are often advised by doctors to take supplementary iron tablets or tonic. Food items containing good level of vitamin C may also aid in absorption of iron by the body. For example, eating a burger with tomato slices in it could boost the absorption of non-heme type iron contents from the burger bread. Citrus fruits and juices like orange juice may also help in iron absorption.
Benefits:
Iron, when consumed in balanced amount in the human diet, is efficient in providing a number of benefits as given below:
Hemoglobin formation:
Formation of hemoglobin happens to be the chief function of this mineral. Not only that, being a part of hemoglobin, it gives the dark red shade to the blood and also aids in transporting oxygen to the body cells.
Muscle function:
Iron is a vital element for muscle health. It is present in the muscle tissues and helps in supply of oxygen required for contraction of muscles.
Brain function:
Development of brain is also one of the many benefits of iron. Since oxygen supply to blood is aided by iron and brain uses approximately 20% of the blood oxygen, iron is directly related to brain health and its functions.
Restless leg syndrome:
Iron deficiency is one of the causes of the restless leg syndrome. Most research on this syndrome has concentrated on iron. Lower level of iron in the blood is a major cause and hence proper intake of iron supplements in required levels as per doctor’s consultation can cure this problem.
Regulation of body temperature:
Iron is a facilitator for regulating body temperature. An interesting fact is that it has the ability to regulate as per the absorption capacity of the body.
Oxygen carrier:
One of the most important health benefits of iron is that it acts as a carrier of oxygen and thus participates in transferring oxygen from one body cell to other. This is an important function of iron, as oxygen is required by each and every body part to perform routine functions.
Neurotransmitters synthesis:
Iron actively takes part in the synthesis of a number of essential neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, along with serotonin. These chemicals play major role in different activities involving neurons and human brain.
Iron deficiency anemia:
Iron is helpful in the treatment of severe disorder called iron deficiency anemia, which results due to lack of adequate amount of iron in human body.
Chronic diseases:
The mineral called iron helps in the treatment of chronic disorders like renal failure anemia.
Anemia in women:
Iron may also exhibit its health benefits in curing anemia resulting in women during pregnancy or menstruation.
Predialysis anemia:
It is recommended by health experts that iron qualifies to treat another form of anemia called predialysis anemia. However, one must consult a medical expert to get treatment for this problem.
Fatigue:
Health benefits of iron also include eradication of different causes of fatigue, which may occur in men as well as women. Iron deficiency is a natural cause of fatigue since it is an important component of hemoglobin. So, the inclusion of iron in your diet keeps you fit and healthy.
Immune system:
Iron also plays a key role in providing strength to the immune system of human body. Thus, the body is made proficient enough to fight against a number of diseases and infections.
Energy metabolism:
Iron is an important spectator of energy metabolism in human body by which, the energy is extracted from the food consumed and distributed to different body parts.
Enzyme systems:
Iron happens to be the most important constituent of different enzyme systems and other important constituents like myoglobin, the cytochromes and catalase.
Insomnia:
Iron is also useful in treating insomnia in human body and also improves the sleeping benefits in the life of an individual.
17.Concentration:
Iron, when consumed in sufficient amount in the diet, builds concentration amongst the students and professional people to carry out their work efficiently.
Manganese
The health benefits of manganese lead to overall wellness in a variety of ways. Here is a list of the most significant benefits that have been researched:
Healthy Bones: Manganese is essential for proper and normal growth of human bone structure. It is a very effective mineral in aiding in the increase of the mineral density of spinal bone. This is especially true and useful for post-menopausal women. Many women suffer from manganese deficiency after they go through menopause, so increasing the amount of trace minerals that women consume is an important factor in preventing fractures. Although research has yet to consistently prove that manganese can prevent osteoporosis, it is believed to be one of the contributing factors that slow down the progress of that debilitating disease.
Free Radicals: Due to the antioxidant properties of manganese, the health benefits of manganese include a special function of monitoring the activity of free radicals in human body. These free radicals are capable of damaging human cells and causing cancer and other devastating diseases, so adding manganese supplements or food rich in this mineral is a very good choice, particularly if you have other risk factors for various diseases.
Sugar level: Manganese has also exhibited efficiency in controlling the level of sugar in human blood. This may further prevent the occurrence of certain diseases like diabetes. To control the level of sugar in the blood, manganese normalizes insulin synthesis and secretion, and the unpredictable drops in blood sugar can be better regulated, providing a more normal and functional life for diabetics.
Epilepsy: Low levels of manganese can act as a trigger for epileptic seizures. Manganese supplements can aid in controlling the possibility of any minor or major epileptic seizure. The exact mechanism for this is not fully understood, but manganese has been shown to act as a vasodilator in various studies, and there are some researchers who believe that this is the key to the anti-epileptic quality.
Metabolism: Regulation of the body’s metabolism is one of the vital functions of manganese. Manganese-activated enzymes help in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids, and carbohydrates. It is also important for the metabolism of Vitamins like Vitamin E and Vitamin B-1. Furthermore, it helps the liver properly function and run smoothly, as well as being an essential part of the metabolism of glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body, and a key part of DNA polymerase.
Inflammation and Sprains: Manganese is a widely known remedy for sprains as well as inflammation as it helps in increasing the level of superoxide dismutase. This increased level is due to the antioxidant properties of the mineral. Superoxide dismutase, also known as SOD, is normally found in very low levels in patients with arthritis. SOD has anti-inflammatory qualities which arthritis sufferers desperately need, so adding manganese back into the body to increase synthesis and function of SOD has been connected with a decrease in symptoms of this condition, according to various studies.
Preventing Osteoporosis: Manganese supplements are connected to the relief of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis syndrome because it is an essential mineral that has been proven to add to bone density and overall mineral density. However, as an individual element in the creation and repair of bones, studies are still somewhat lacking. In human testing, at least, most bone health research is done with a complete panel of trace minerals, not just manganese. Further studies have to be done on the specific roles and mechanisms of manganese on the body.
Alleviating PMS syndrome: It is an unfortunate but unavoidable fact that many women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In these monthly situations, manganese helps to alleviate the mood swings, headaches, depression and irritability to a considerable extent. Studies have shown a connection between low levels of various trace minerals, including manganese, in women who suffered from particularly severe PMS symptoms, so supplementation is recommended. That being said, the impact of manganese on the hormonal function of the body can be quite noticeable, so speak with a doctor before using manganese supplementation to help with PMS, since that is also heavily connected to hormones.
Thyroid Health: Manganese is an important co-factor for many different enzymes, and it is an essential component of thyroxine, arguably the most important hormone in the thyroid gland. Proper functioning of the thyroid gland and its hormonal synthesis benefits a wide variety of health issues in the body, including weight loss, appetite, metabolism, and organ system efficiency.
Aids in vitamin absorption:Manganese helps absorb vital vitamins like vitamin B and E and minerals like magnesium. This is due to the role of manganese in the enzymatic reactions that are required to absorb and utilize vitamins taken in from food. Manganese is one of the most versatile co-factors for enzymatic reactions, and if there is a risk of having a deficiency in certain vitamins, then be sure to increase levels of manganese, as long as they are still within safe and non-toxic levels.
Brain and nervous system:Manganese is essential for the healthy functioning of the brain and it is also used to treat specific nervous disorders. This is most likely due to the superoxide dismutase, which scavenges free radicals throughout the body, including the neural pathways. Oxidation byproducts like free radicals are everywhere in the body, and the brain can be negatively affected just as easily as other parts of the body, therefore powerful antioxidants like SOD are required. Aside from its antioxidant role, manganese can also bind with neurotransmitters and stimulate faster or more efficient transmission of electrical impulses throughout the body, in effect, speeding up cognitive function!
Glucose Metabolism: Manganese aids in regulating glucose metabolism in the human body. This is one of the most important health benefits of manganese to provide proper resources to different body parts, which increases energy and functional efficiency. Also, when glucose is properly absorbed and utilized by organ systems and muscles, there is less of a chance of excess buildup, which is dangerous for patients with diabetics. Proper management of diabetes is definitely aided by proper manganese levels in the body.
Digestive tract: Manganese is a mineral, which is helpful in maintaining the functioning of the digestive track. This further improves the absorption of fat in the process of digestion, and also reduces issues like constipation and bowel discomfort. Manganese is also important in terms of efficient food utilization and the transformation into usable energy.
A Few Words of Warning: Manganese is one of only three toxic trace minerals in the human body, meaning that we cannot have too little or too much. Be sure to never overdo on manganese supplementation, because it can lead to a wide array of very dangerous conditions and diseases, some of which are fatal. Manganese overdose can lead to similar symptoms to Parkinson’s disease, or to the disease itself. Also, for those with liver conditions, be careful not to take in too much manganese, since the liver will have trouble getting rid of it, which can lead to psychosis, mental disorders, and tremors/spasms. Finally, if you have anemia, your body tries to absorb as much manganese as possible, which can be dangerous, so monitor your intake closely!
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral our bodies use in small amounts for normal body functions, such as digesting food. Chromium exists in many natural foods including brewer’s yeast, meats, potatoes (especially the skins), cheeses, molasses, spices, whole-grain breads and cereals, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Drinking hard tap water supplies chromium to the body, and cooking in stainless-steel cookware increases the chromium content in foods.
You can buy chromium supplements alone in tablets or capsules or as part of a multivitamin. But because the human body needs very little chromium, most people get enough in their regular diet and do not require dietary supplements. Those at risk for chromium deficiency include people with diabetes and the elderly.
What is chromium used for?
Chromium helps to move blood sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream into the cells to be used as energy and to turn fats, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy.
Is chromium safe?
The chromium found in foods will not hurt you. But taking excessive chromium supplements can lead to stomach problems and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Too much chromium from supplements can also damage the liver, kidneys, and nerves, and it may cause irregular heart rhythm. But side effects from taking chromium supplements are rare.
Antacids (including calcium carbonate) interfere with the absorption of chromium.
Being exposed to high levels of chromium on the job (such as in metallurgy and electroplating) has been linked not only to kidney damage but also to lung and other cancers as well as skin conditions such as eczema and other inflammations of the skin.
Vanadium
Although research on the health effects of vanadium is limited and dated, there’s some evidence that vanadium may offer certain health benefits. Here’s a look at several key study findings:
1) Diabetes
Preliminary research suggests that vanadate (a vanadium compound) may help improve the body’s metabolism of blood sugar (also known as “glucose”). Additionally, some preliminary studies indicate that vanadate and other vanadium compounds may promote the movement of glucose into cells (where glucose is broken down and used for energy).
So far, very few clinical trials have tested the use of vanadium in treatment of diabetes. However, one of the few human-based studies found that vanadyl sulfate (a form of vanadium) had some beneficial effects on patients with type 2 diabetes.
Published in the journal Metabolism in 2000, the study involved 16 diabetes patients. After six weeks of treatment with vanadyl sulfate, some patients showed improvements in glucose metabolism and cholesterol levels.
Still, vanadyl sulfate did not appear to fight insulin resistance or help regulate blood sugar levels.
2) Cancer
Vanadium shows promise for cancer treatment, according to a 2002 report published in Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology. For instance, laboratory studies on human cells demonstrate that vanadium may help promote apoptosis (a type of programmed cell death involved in stopping the spread of cancer cells). There’s also some evidence that vanadium may help suppress the growth of cancerous tumors, according to the report.
Since there is currently a lack of clinical trials on vanadium’s effectiveness against cancer, it’s too soon to recommend vanadium for cancer treatment (or cancer prevention).
3) Bone Health
Tests on animals and human cells indicate that vanadium compounds may help promote osteogenesis (a process in which bone-forming cells lay down new bone material), according to a 2006 report published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. However, clinical data on the use of vanadium for prevention or treatment of bone disorders are currently lacking.
Caveats
Little is known about the safety of taking vanadium regularly. However, there’s some evidence that vanadium may be harmful to people with certain health conditions (including disorders of the blood, respiratory system, and immune system).
In addition, some research suggests that excessive consumption of vanadium may cause damage to the liver and/or kidneys.
Given these safety concerns, it’s important to seek medical advice if you’re considering the use of vanadium.
Use of vanadium may trigger several side effects, including stomach pain,diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
It’s important to keep in mind that supplements haven’t been tested for safety and dietary supplements are largely unregulated. In some cases, the product may deliver doses that differ from the specified amount for each herb. In other cases, the product may be contaminated with other substances such as metals. Also, the safety of supplements in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications has not been established.
Food Sources and Supplements
Dill seeds and black pepper are the two top food sources of vanadium. Vanadium can also be found in whole grains, seafood, meats, and dairy products.