Molybdenum

Molybdenum plays an important role in the activity of various enzymes that are involved in the oxidation of fats, movement of iron from liver reserves, catabolism of purines and the sulphur amino acids and converting nucleic acid to uric acid for excretion. Molybdenum is absorbed through the intestines and stored in the liver, bones, and kidneys. Molybdate is carried in the blood bound to alpha-macroglobulin and by adsorption to erythrocytes. Excess is excreted in the urine and bile as molybdate.

FOOD SOURCES

Liver, kidneys, nuts, pulses, legumes, whole grains and seeds such as brown rice, green leafy vegetables, berries, avocados, buchu leaves, cloves, coffee, egg yolk, ginger, seaweed, pineapple.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Sodium molybdate or ammonium molybdate. Note: A molybdenum deficiency may result in the excess presence of copper or tungsten (which reduce uptake) but is otherwise rare.

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY

In animals, deficiency may lead to retarded weight gain, decreased food consumption, impaired reproduction and reduced life expectancy. Deficiency of the molybdenum cofactor (Moco) causes a severe disease in humans that usually results in premature death in early childhood and is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. Little other useful data exist for deficiency in humans. Claims that molybdenum helps prevent dental cavities and is cancer-preventative (esophagus, stomach) have not been substantiated.

SIGNS OF TOXICITY

Doses of molybdenum of 10 to 15 milligrams daily have been associated with a gout-like syndrome and hyperuricemia.

DAILY REQUIREMENT

75-250 mcg approx.