How Manganese works on Arthritis:

Manganese helps in the formation of connective tissues and bone. A person with rheumatoid arthritis has the tendency to have lower levels of Manganese Super Oxide Dismutase (MnSOD) which helps and protect the joints from damage. Supplementation of manganese may increase the activity of MnSOD. Research suggest that combining manganese with glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis. In a double-blind placebo controlled study about knee osteoarthritis, manganese ascorbate combined with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate helps alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

Side Effects and Precautions of Manganese:

Manganese is toxic when taken at high doses. Symptoms of manganese toxicity include loss of appetite, nerve damage, memory loss, hallucinations, elevation of blood pressure and liver damage. Manganese supplementation is contraindicated in persons with liver failure. Persons taking contraceptives or antacids may need higher intake of manganese.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names:

Available as manganese gluconate, manganese sulfate, manganese ascorbate, manganese amino acid chelates. It works best when combined with chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and ascorbic acid.

Adults: The typical dose of manganese supplementation ranges from 2 to 5 milligrams per day.

Pregnant Women: The maximum safe dosage is 2 milligrams per day.

Children: The dosage is determined by your doctor.

References about Manganese and Arthritis:

McAlindon" T.E., et al. "Do antioxidant micronutrients protect against the development and progression of knee arthritis?," Arthritis and Rheumatism 39(4):648-656. 1996.

Heliovaara, M. et al. "Serum antioxidants and risk of rheumatoid arthritis," Annals of Rheumatic Disease 53(1):51-53, 1994.

Shealy, Norman, M.D., Ph.D. (editor). The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine. Rockport, Mass.: Element Books Inc., 1996.

Murray, C. "Rheumatoid Arthritis," Journal of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATOMS newsletter) Winter 1994, pp. 27-29.

Page last updated: May 02, 2008