Manganese is another one of those essential nutrients the body needs in order to function properly. It is present in all living organisms and works alongside enzymes. While it is working down at the microscopic level, manganese has full body effects and is necessary in order for the adrenal glands and thyroid to function as they should.

However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. That is exactly what happens when too much manganese stays in the body. It is called manganese toxicity and can be caused by a variety of things including liver dysfunction wherein the manganese is not processed properly and cannot leave the body. Another thing that can inhibit the appropriate elimination of manganese are certain medications such as laxatives, antacids and antibiotics.

Another cause is prolonged exposure in the workplace. What sort of workplace would cause excessive exposure to manganese, you may be wondering? Specifically, those who work around pesticides are at a great risk.

However, more disturbing than the causes of manganese toxicity are the effects it has on the human body. Just look at some of the damaging effects manganese in high levels can have:

-Liver damage

-Brain damage

-Kidney damage

-Damage to the fetus

These are serious side effects that create permanent damage. This is why it is so important to take note of any signs or symptoms that your body may be giving you of manganese toxicity. These symptoms include:

-Hallucinations

-Irritability

-Tremors

-Muscle spasms

-Lack of coordination

-Respiratory problems

-Sexual dysfunction

While rare, manganese toxicity is still something people should be concerned about. Even if you take precautions, how can you know for sure that the pesticides used near your home have been sprayed properly? It is unknown factors such as these that make monitoring your manganese levels a necessity. You can do this by means of an at home test called a wellness panel.

A wellness panel can detect different substances at once, all which play a vital role in your health. Just take four oral fluids samples, send it off to the lab and wait a few days for your results. That is all there is to it. And once you get your results you can find out whether or not your manganese levels are right at normal, a bit above normal or way above normal. With this information and any symptoms you may be presenting, you can then approach your doctor with confidence, knowing what to ask and what to seek treatment for.

By keeping track of your manganese levels at home, you save money on doctor visits and ensure you are still healthy. By catching anything that is off kilter before it becomes a major problem, you can save yourself a lot of grief and keep feeling great.