Manganese is the 12th most abundant element of the earth’s crust, which means there is a lot of it around us in the environment. Manganese occurs naturally in rocks and soil across Michigan and is often found in Michigan ground and surface water. Your body needs some manganese to stay healthy, but too much can be harmful.
Manganese is an essential nutrient that is naturally present in many foods and available as a dietary supplement. However, too much manganese can increase the risk of health effects. There is substantial evidence that demonstrates that exposure to manganese at high levels can pose a neurotoxic risk (ATSDR, 2012; US EPA, 2004; WHO, 2004).
Manganese is usually not harmful. Drinking water with over 0.05 milligrams per liter (mg/L) may taste bitter or metallic. You may notice dark-colored water or stained fixtures. Amounts above 0.3 mg/L in drinking water increase the risk of health effects, including: Harm to the nervous system causing changes to memory, thinking, mood and motor skills.
Infants are more likely to be at risk. Infant formulas usually contain more manganese than human milk. Infants may take in more manganese than needed if the formula is made with drinking water containing manganese. Infants may also retain more manganese from water because less is passed through normal bodily functions.
