A-Z trace minerals Articles

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.

Trace minerals are needed by the body in minute amounts. They perform a variety of functions, mostly having to do with the exchange of materials across the cell’s membrane and the speeding up of chemical reactions in the body (enzymes). In general, most individuals are deficient in trace minerals, and supplementation of trace mineral drops may be beneficial. Let's explore this further. 

What Causes Trace Mineral Deficiency?

The first cause for deficiency is that today's food supply is deficient in minerals. Farms’ soil is depleted after years of farming without allowing fields to lie fallow and replenish themselves. The second is that many people consume filtered water. To remove contaminants, some of these processes also must remove the trace minerals. Distilled and reverse osmosis water are two examples of water that have had all of their minerals removed.

Who Should Consider Trace Mineral Supplements?

Even those who are seemingly without any signs or symptoms of mineral deficiency will most likely benefit from replenishing their minerals. Health practitioners recommend trace mineral drops or therapy if you drink reverse osmosis or distilled water, those with hair and nail problems, those with cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, and those with neurological or emotional problems.

How Are These Minerals Generally Sourced?

Corcal calcium is a form of calcium carbonate that is naturally found in a complex with an array of trace minerals. Two types of coral calcium exist: fossilized and marine. 

Fossilized coral is farmed after it floats to the top of the ocean, while marine-grade is live coral that is vacuumed from the ocean floor. There is a debate between the makers of both types as to which is better, with no clear winner emerging. One must consider the ecological effect of both processes when purchasing coral calcium. 

Trace Mineral Supplements: Varieties, Potency & Formats

Trace mineral supplements are commonly found as tablets, liquid suspension drops and powders. There is not much difference between the forms, so select the format that's most convenient for you to use. If you want to add your trace minerals to your water, it's easiest to mix the liquid minerals. The source of the minerals and the quality of the processing are important considerations when purchasing trace minerals. Ensure that the company is testing the supplement for contaminants and chemicals because most minerals are sourced from water deposits.

Concentrace: Liquid Trace Mineral Drops

Concentrace is a liquid trace mineral supplement that is naturally ionic and pH-balancing. It is sourced through solar evaporation from Utah's Great Salt Lake using clean harvesting methods, yielding a pure and potent supplement. 

Concentrace contains a full spectrum of trace minerals, including ionic magnesium and is a natural source of electrolytes. Since it is 99% sodium-reduced, it's great for those following a low-sodium diet. Concentrace is also beneficial for anyone looking to increase their trace mineral consumption. 

Shopping For Trace Mineral Supplements

If a supplement is sourced from coral calcium, ensure it is tested for contaminants since the coral is farmed from the ocean. Even after purification, coral calcium contains minute amounts of heavy metals and should not be consumed by pregnant or nursing women. 

Aside from purity, you will want to select a supplement that's low in sodium and has a full spectrum of minerals. You should also select a format that suits your preferences and lifestyle. 

If you need further assistance, our knowledgeable team is happy to help.