General Dosage
1.8-2.3mg daily (AI); supplemental doses typically 2-5mg
Maximum dose: 11mg/day (NIH UL); excess manganese is neurotoxic
Manganese Dosage Guide
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Dosage Recommendations
General recommendation: 1.8-2.3mg daily (AI); supplemental doses typically 2-5mg
Timing: With meals; avoid taking with iron or calcium supplements which compete for absorption • Take with food for best absorption.
Dosage by Condition
General health
2-5mg dailyModerate
Bone support
5mg daily combined with calcium, zinc, and copperModerate
Osteoarthritis support
2-5mg daily as part of joint formulaEmerging
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| General health | 2-5mg daily | Moderate |
| Bone support | 5mg daily combined with calcium, zinc, and copper | Moderate |
| Osteoarthritis support | 2-5mg daily as part of joint formula | Emerging |
Upper limit: 11mg/day (NIH UL); excess manganese is neurotoxic
Timing & Absorption
With meals; avoid taking with iron or calcium supplements which compete for absorption
Best taken with food for optimal absorption.
References
- Strause L, Saltman P, Smith KT, Bracker M, Andon MB (1994). Spinal bone loss in postmenopausal women supplemented with calcium and trace minerals. Journal of Nutrition. DOI PubMed
- Aschner JL, Aschner M (2005). Nutritional aspects of manganese homeostasis. Molecular Aspects of Medicine. DOI PubMed
- O'Neal SL, Zheng W (2015). Manganese toxicity upon overexposure: a decade in review. Current Environmental Health Reports. DOI PubMed