MOLYBDENUM
Facts
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Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral for both animals and humans. The highest concentrations of molybdenum are found in the liver, kidney, adrenal glands and bone.
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Molybdenum is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is excreted in the urine.
Functions
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Molybdenum is a component of a number of enzymes including: sulphite oxidase, which is involved in the metabolism of sulphur amino acids; xanthine oxidase, which is involved in the production of uric acid and aids in mobilising iron from the liver reserves; and aldehyde oxidase, which is necessary for the oxidation of fats.1,2
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Molybdenum is a factor in copper metabolism.1
Requirements
No Recommended Daily Allowance has been set for Molybdenum.
Signs of Deficiency
According to Nutrition Almanac, a molybdenum deficiency can occur due to the numerous refining and processing techniques employed in virtually every area of food production today. A deficiency can cause male impotence.1
Signs of Toxicity
Symptoms include: diarrhoea, anaemia, reduced growth rate and gout (reported with intakes at 10 to 15 mg/day).1,2
Current Research
General
Molybdenum may play a role in the prevention of anaemia. Tooth enamel also contains this element and, as such, some studies have found it to play an important role in the prevention of tooth decay. Some research has also borne out that intake of this element can decrease rates of oesophagul cancer.1
1 Dunne, L.J. Nutrition Almanac, 3rd ed. McGraw-Hill Publishing Company, 1990:81-82.
2 Serfass R., Turnlund, J. Molybdenum. http:www.nutrition.org/nutinfo/content/moly.shtml.