Molybdenum (Mo) is a chemical element, of the periodic table persuasion, with the atomic number 42. Interestingly, it is also the 42nd most abundant atom in the Universe and forms a strong shiny metal that can withstand extremely high temperatures without expanding or softening. On the atomic scale, molybdenum is a trace mineral used in several enzymes in the human body. It is also present in tooth enamel, which may help to prevent tooth decay. Incidence of molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare outside of certain areas of China and Iran; however, molybdenum supplements still hold a place in good health.
Key Health Advantages of Molybdenum Supplements
Role in Detoxification
Molybdenum forms part of the core of several important enzymes in the body, the most well-known of which is xanthine oxidase. This is the enzyme that allows our kidneys to process waste in the blood and convert it into uric acid, to be excreted in the urine. This prevents the build-up of harmful sulphite and urate in the body and allows for proper detoxification. The activity of xanthine oxidase is controlled by the amount of molybdenum in the body. Through its role in other enzymes, molybdenum affects protein synthesis, metabolism and growth.
Molybdenum and Copper
High levels of molybdenum can interfere with the body's uptake and storage of copper, which can lead to copper deficiency. Molybdenum prevents copper from being absorbed into the digestive tract. It also stops plasma proteins from binding to copper and thus less can be moved to the tissues and more is excreted in the urine. This can be particularly useful in Wilson's Disease, a condition where the body maintains too high a concentration of copper, but generally isn't a good idea for most people. Please see "Important Information" below for the effects of copper deficiency.
Potentially Boosts Healthy Cell Replication
Copper is required for the formation of new blood vessels in the body, a process called angiogenesis. Because molybdenum reduces copper stores in the body, it can create copper deficiency, and thus reduce angiogenesis in the body. This is particularly important in people with unhealthy cell replication, as these cells require increased blood flow to provide the nutrients required to grow and replicate. Without the ability to form new blood vessels, the unhealthy cells will begin to starve. In the same way, molybdenum may be useful for age-related vision concerns and other diseases with uncontrolled blood vessel development, but further research is required.
Molybdenum Supplement Varieties
Molybdenum is present in the soil in varying amounts, and thus amounts vary in foods as well. In general, it can be foundin chickpeas, legumes, brown rice, cucumbers, sunflower seeds, lentils, wheat flour, and cereal grains. For supplementation, this mineral can be found in multivitamins and multi-mineral formulas, as well as alone in capsules. The recommended dosage is between 35 and 250 µg per day.
Key Important Information To Consider
Large amounts of molybdenum can cause copper deficiency in the body, which can result in nerve damage, lowered white blood cell counts, hair loss, and possible vision loss. Excess molybdenum can interfere with enzyme function in the body, so careful dosing should be used.
