Molybdenum

The mineral molybdenum appears to be necessary to life processes in trace amounts and is vital for plants - it is always detected at least in very minute concentrations in all tissues of plants and animals. The element molybdenum is relatively rare as minerals go; however, it is a cofactor in several enzyme systems that take part in bio-chemical energy production, in the formation of urine and in the oxidation of fatty acids. Growth and development of plants is dependent on the availability of trace amounts of this mineral in the soil. The mineral is added to soils to boost the growth of crops and increase livestock production in areas where the soil is deficient in the mineral.

The necessity of molybdenum in humans is based on a single report that suggests the possible stimulation of hemoglobin synthesis in the body - when combined with the mineral iron, as part of therapy in individuals affected by anemia. Molybdenum deficiency is not known to occur in humans and animals, while such a scenario is theoretically possible because most of the molybdenum is removed after grains and sugars - common foods - are refined. Molybdenum is available in abundant amounts in food sources including all kinds of legumes, all kinds of dark green and leafy vegetables, grains, all organ meats as well as milk and other dairy products. Molybdenum can also arrive in the body through the use of hard tap water for cooking. Though it is rare in supplemental form, many of the multi-mineral tablets do contain small amounts of the mineral.

There are also reports based on preliminary evidence that point to the importance of molybdenum, possibly because of its involvement in the detoxification of sulfites, this biochemical reaction mediated by molybdenum may actually lower the risk of asthma attacks induced by sulfite reactions. This sensitivity to sulfite must first be evaluated by a nutritionally oriented physician before supervised supplementation of molybdenum can be started.

The mineral content of the soil directly influences the amount of molybdenum found in plant foods and this level varies significantly in different plant tissues and differs in different plants. Molybdenum deficiencies have not been reported in humans even though the element molybdenum is considered to be an essential trace mineral.

Usual dosage

Molybdenum does not have a recommended dietary allowance or RDA, unlike the other important minerals necessary in the diet. Adults are recommended intakes of 75mcg - 250 mcg daily by the Food and Nutrition Board, this amount is considered both safe and adequate for an average man or woman.

Side effects and cautions

Intakes of molybdenum are considered safe across a wide range and can be taken even up to 15 mg per person daily, however, high amounts of the mineral can interfere with the absorption of copper in the diet and such high doses must be avoided. The element molybdenum is also essential in the conversion of purines to uric acid in the body. The intake of high amounts of molybdenum can in rare cases, induce symptoms resembling gout, including problems like swelling and joint pain.

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