We’re taking a deeper look at the world of molybdenum, an important trace mineral that plays a vital role in our health. From its important functions, health benefits, potential side effects, food sources, and some interesting facts – we’ll explore everything about molybdenum! So, let’s embark on this exciting journey to discover the wonders of this little-known but extremely important nutrient.
What is Molybdenum?
Molybdenum is a trace mineral found in all tissues of the human body. It’s one of those unsung heroes of our nutritional health, playing a vital role even in small amounts.
Molybdenum is a cofactor for many enzymes in the body. These enzymes are involved in many important processes, including the breakdown of certain amino acids, the production of uric acid, and the metabolism of drugs and toxins.
In addition, molybdenum aids in the overall function of the nervous system and kidneys. It also plays a role in energy production within cells.
Molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare because most diets provide adequate amounts of this mineral. However, when deficient, the metabolism of certain amino acids may be affected.
Health Benefits
Metabolism
Molybdenum is a cofactor for many enzymes involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and other compounds. This means it helps our bodies break down and utilize nutrients efficiently.
Detoxification
Molybdenum assists in the detoxification process. Specifically, it supports the function of an enzyme called sulfite oxidase, which converts potentially harmful sulfites into safer sulfates in our body.
Cellular Health
Molybdenum is involved in the production of DNA and RNA, the genetic material in our cells. This aids in cell growth and function.
Side Effects
Gout-Like Symptoms
High levels of molybdenum can cause an increase in uric acid in the body, which can lead to gout-like symptoms such as joint pain and inflammation.
Digestive Issues
Excessive intake of molybdenum supplements can cause digestive upsets such as diarrhea and bloating.
Copper Deficiency
Overdose of Molybdenum can interfere with the body’s absorption of copper, potentially leading to a copper deficiency. However, this is extremely rare.
Food Sources
Animal-Based Food Sources of Molybdenum
- Beef kidney
- Shrimp
- Chicken liver
- Cod
- Lamb kidney
- Oysters
- Salmon
- Pork
- Lamb liver
- Clams
Plant-Based Food Sources of Molybdenum
- Lentil
- Quinoa
- Black bean
- Chickpea
- Buckwheat
- Almond
- Peanut
- Spinach
- Barley
- Sunflower seed
Other Molybdenum Sources
Best Overall: Seeking Health Molybdenum 500 mcg at Amazon ($18)
Best Seller: NOW NAC 600 mg at Amazon ($22)
Best Budget: Piping Rock Chelated Molybdenum 500 mcg at Amazon ($14)
Best Overall: Seeking Health Molybdenum 500 mcg
- Targeted Support: Each easy-to-swallow vegetarian capsule provides 500 mcg molybdenum (as molybdenum glycinate chelate). It’s a potent metabolism supplement that also supports iron utilization.
- Multiple Health Benefits: Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral found naturally in the bones, liver, and kidneys. It supports biochemical processes such as waste-processing, nervous system functioning, and energy production.
- Sulfite Sensitivity Support: Supplementing with molybdenum may help support enzymatic breakdown of sulfites, offering relief from discomfort often associated with high-sulfite foods and drinks such as wine, dried fruits, and lemon & lime juice.
- Free From: Eggs, fish, gluten, GMO, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, sesame, tree nuts, wheat, artificial colors, artificial flavors, and artificial preservatives.
- Consistent Quality: At Seeking Health, every ingredient is carefully sourced, researched, and tested. Each meets strict specifications for manufacturing and quality standards before any ingredient is allowed for use.
- Brand: Seeking Health
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Primary Supplement Type: Iron, Molybdenum
- Item Form: Capsule
- Unit Count: 90 Count
Best Seller: NOW NAC 600 mg
- Free Radical Protection: Take 1 NAC veggie capsule with selenium and molybdenum twice daily for free radical protection and to maintain cellular health.
- Important Note About This Product: Black spots may appear in NAC because of a normal oxidative reaction, but product is safe to consume. These spots are not mold or any other micro-contamination. Micro-testing has been performed to assess product safety.
- Certifications/Classifications: Non-GMO, vegan/vegetarian, made without gluten, kosher, dairy free, egg free, nut free, soy free, UL certified.
- GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
- Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968.
- Brand: NOW
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Primary Supplement Type: Selenium
- Item Form: Capsule
- Unit Count: 250 Count
Best Budget: Piping Rock Chelated Molybdenum 500 mcg
- Molybdenum (500 mcg).
- Molybdenum amino acid chelate.
- Essential trace element.
- Convenient quick-release capsules.
- Laboratory Tested, using Trusted Ingredients.
- Brand: Piping Rock
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Unit Count: 200.00 Count
- Item Form: Capsules
- Product Benefits: Nutritional Support
Fun Facts
Fact 1: It’s Truly ‘Trace’
Despite its importance, Molybdenum composes just 0.00001% of the human body’s weight. Talk about small but mighty!
Fact 2: Not Just for Humans
Molybdenum is not only vital to us humans. It is also an essential nutrient for plants and helps fix nitrogen.
Fact 3: Named After the Greek
The name ‘Molybdenum’ comes from the Greek word ‘molybdos,’ which means lead. This is because the mineral was often confused with lead ores in ancient times.
Fact 4: Super High Boiling Point
In its pure elemental form, molybdenum has one of the highest boiling points of all elements, a whopping 4,753 degrees Fahrenheit!
Fact 5: Varies with Soil
The amount of molybdenum in plant foods varies widely, depending on the soil in which the plants are grown.
Fact 6: First Isolated in 1781
Molybdenum was first isolated by Peter Jacob Hjelm, a Swedish chemist, in 1781.
