Molybdenum

Overview:

Molybdenum is a trace mineral that is a cofactor for several important enzymes. It plays a role in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and the detoxification of harmful substances in the body.

Sources:

Molybdenum is found in legumes, grains, nuts, and leafy vegetables. It is also available in supplement form, typically included in multivitamins and mineral supplements.

Functions:

Enzyme Function: Molybdenum is a cofactor for enzymes involved in detoxifying sulfites and breaking down purines and other compounds.

Metabolism: It aids in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and other critical biochemical processes.

Deficiency:

Molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare due to its presence in a wide variety of foods. Symptoms can include neurological disturbances and metabolic imbalances.

Toxicity:

Molybdenum toxicity is also rare but can occur with very high intake, leading to symptoms such as gout-like symptoms, increased uric acid levels, and kidney damage. The upper limit for adults is 2 mg per day.