Health Guide

Manganese Lactate

Manganese Lactate is a highly bioavailable form of the essential mineral manganese, bound to lactic acid. While you might see it in supplements, manganese is actually a 'trace mineral,' meaning your body only needs tiny amounts to function. It acts as a cofactor for numerous enzymes, essentially serving as the 'spark plug' for your metabolism, bone formation, and antioxidant defense systems. Unlike other forms that can be harsh on the stomach, Manganese Lactate is gentle and easily absorbed, ensuring you get the benefits without digestive upset.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Manganese Lactate
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Manganese Absorption Efficiency

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Absorption Rate
Form

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Stronger Bones & Connective Tissue: Essential for the production of collagen, the structural protein that keeps your bones and cartilage healthy.
  • Metabolic Helper: Activates enzymes that help your body process cholesterol, carbohydrates, and proteins efficiently.
  • Antioxidant Defense: It fuels the enzyme Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), one of your body's most powerful natural antioxidants that fights cellular damage.

Deep Dive

Manganese is often overlooked, but it is vital for your structural integrity. Think of it as the construction worker that helps lay down the framework for your bones. Without adequate manganese, your body struggles to form strong bone tissue and heal cartilage. Furthermore, because it is bound to lactate (a salt of lactic acid), this form is particularly efficient at entering your bloodstream. This makes it a top choice for those looking to support their joints or manage oxidative stress naturally.

Natural Food Sources

The good news is that manganese is abundant in whole foods, particularly plant-based diets. You likely get enough from your diet if you eat a variety of nuts, seeds, and grains.

FoodAmount% DV (Daily Value)
Pineapple (Raw)1 cup76%
Pecans1 oz49%
Brown Rice (Cooked)1 cup45%
Spinach (Cooked)1 cup36%
Hazelnuts1 oz34%

Supplementation

Supplementation with Manganese Lactate is typically recommended for those with restricted diets, specific bone/joint issues, or malabsorption conditions. A typical dosage ranges from 2mg to 10mg daily. Always take it with food to aid absorption and minimize stomach upset.

Top Food Sources

Brown Rice (Whole Grain)
Contains 1.8mg per cup
Pineapple
Contains 1.5mg per cup
Pecans
Contains 1.3mg per oz
Spinach
Contains 0.8mg per cooked cup
Lima Beans
Contains 0.6mg per cup

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, yes. Lactate is a 'chelated' form, meaning it is bound to an organic molecule (lactic acid) that the body recognizes and absorbs more easily than the inorganic sulfate form. It is also gentler on the stomach.
Pineapple is actually one of the best fruit sources! However, relying on a single food is risky. A balanced diet including nuts, whole grains, and leafy greens is the best way to ensure you meet your needs.
Indirectly, yes. Manganese helps produce collagen, which is essential for healthy hair follicles. However, it is not a primary cure for hair loss.
No. You should take manganese and iron supplements at different times of the day. They compete for absorption in the gut; taking them together means your body absorbs less of both.

Safety & Side Effects

Manganese Lactate is generally recognized as safe when used at recommended dosages. However, because manganese is a heavy metal, dosage matters.

Who should be cautious?

  • Individuals with liver damage or cirrhosis (the body cannot excrete excess manganese efficiently).
  • People with iron-deficiency anemia (high manganese intake can interfere with iron absorption).

Side Effects: Taking too much manganese can lead to neurological symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease (tremors, muscle stiffness). Do not exceed the Upper Limit (UL) of 11mg/day for adults unless directed by a doctor.

Scientific References

  • [1]Institute of Medicine (US) Panel on Micronutrients. (2001). *Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc.* National Academies Press.
  • [2]Li, L., & Yang, X. (2018). *The Essentiality of Manganese and its Role in Bone Health.* Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology.
  • [3]Aschner, J. L., & Aschner, M. (2005). *Nutritional aspects of manganese homeostasis.* Molecular Aspects of Medicine.