Manganese is an essential trace nutrient in all forms of life. It is essential for smooth functioning of the brain and also needed in the production of certain enzymes. Manganese deficiency symptoms include pain in the joints, high blood sugar, bone/disc problems and poor memory. Good sources of manganese include tea, wheat germ, spinach, split peas, nuts, oat germ, oatmeal, pineapple, and green leafy vegetables. Manganese in excess is toxic. Exposure to manganese dusts and fumes should not exceed the ceiling value of 5 mg/m3 for even short periods because of its toxicity level.