Derived from the Greek word for magic, manganese is a trace mineral that is present in tiny amounts in the body and is found mostly in the bones, liver, kidneys and pancreas.  It is essential for the proper and normal growth of the human bone structure and is a very effective mineral in aiding in the increase of the mineral density of spinal bone.  Manganese is also needed in the production and repair of connective tissue, its specific role is in the manufacture of mucopolysaccharides which are one of the main components of all connective tissues.  

Regulation of the body’s metabolism is another vital function of manganese with manganese activated enzymes helping in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids and carbohydrates.  Also a powerful contributor to the protection of cells from oxidative stress, manganese is a component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) which helps to fight free radicals.  Free radicals occur naturally in the body but can damage cell membranes and DNA, antioxidants such as SOD can help to neutralise free radicals.  Rich sources of manganese include; whole grains, nuts and nut butters and leafy vegetables.

Manganese contributes to:

·         normal energy-yielding metabolism

·         the maintenance of normal bones

·         the normal formation of connective tissue

·         the protection of cells from oxidative stress

Selenium is an essential trace element that plays an important role in a number of physiological processes in humans.  It is a key element in spermatogenesis (the production or development of mature spermatozoa) and male fertility.  Selenium has also been shown to support the immune system by promoting the production of killer T-cells (a type of white blood cell), which engulf and destroy harmful foreign substances that enter the body and could otherwise cause disease and infection.  Selenium works in close conjunction with vitamin E as an antioxidant to prevent the formation of free radicals which can weaken and damage cells in every organ system. 

In addition, research has shown that selenium is an essential component of the thyroid gland’s functions, helping to regulate the amount of the thyroid hormone T3 that is produced within the body – without selenium the T3 hormone cannot be produced which can be catastrophic to a wide variety of your body’s systems.  It is believed that good selenium intake can help to prevent hair loss and promote shiny hair and healthy nail growth.  Brazil nuts are the richest source of selenium discovered so far, also found in mushrooms, shellfish, garlic, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, selenium is destroyed when foods are refined or processed so eating a variety of whole, unprocessed foods is the best way to get selenium into your diet.

Selenium contributes to:

·         normal spermatogenesis

·         the maintenance of normal hair

·         the maintenance of normal nails

·         the normal function of the immune system

·         normal thyroid function

·         the protection of cells from oxidative stress