Manganese is a trace mineral that is essential to the body in small amounts. It is found mostly in bones, the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Manganese helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors, and sex hormones. It also plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption, and blood sugar regulation. Manganese is a component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which helps fight free radicals. Free radicals occur naturally in the body but can damage cell membranes and DNA. They may play a role in aging, as well as the development of a number of health conditions, including heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants, such as SOD, can help neutralize free radicals and reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.

Here are some of the benefits of manganese:

• Bone health: Manganese is one of several trace elements that are necessary for bone health. There is no specific evidence that manganese can prevent osteoporosis, but one study found that taking a combination of calcium, zinc, and manganese may help improve bone density.

• Blood sugar regulation: Manganese plays a role in blood sugar regulation. In animal studies, a manganese deficiency can impair the action of insulin and disrupt normal blood levels of glucose.

• Brain function: Manganese is necessary for normal brain and nerve function. Your brain uses manganese to help your nerve cells send signals to each other. A review of several studies about manganese and the brain shows this trace mineral can even improve brain function.

• Immune system support: Manganese is involved in immune response. It works as a cofactor, or helper, in the regulation of immune function.

• Wound healing: Manganese works with vitamin K to assist in wound healing by clotting the blood.

It is fairly easy to get enough manganese in your diet -- this nutrient is found in whole grains, nuts, and seeds -- but some experts estimate that as many as 37% of Americans do not get the recommended dietary intake (RDI) of manganese in their diet. Low levels of manganese in the body can contribute to infertility, bone malformation, weakness, and seizures.