Molybdenum

The Sources of Molybdenum

As with all nutrients, molybdenum is found in food, such as liver, nuts, lentils, beans, peas and leafy vegetables. The amount of molybdenum that is present in food is directly associated with the amount that is present in the soil.

The presence of molybdenum in food is notably depleted, since the quality of soil has greatly declined over the last two decades. The glands, kidneys, liver and bones store molybdenum, yet it is also found in the skin, muscles, spleen and lungs. 

Urination will dispel approximately 90% of the molybdenum that is consumed in food. Molybdenum deficiency is rare, yet it may be found in individuals who are intravenously fed over long periods of time. 

Occasionally, a deficiency may be found in infants due to a genetic situation, where the body refuses to use the molybdenum when it is consumed.

The Benefits of Molybdenum

Wilson’s disease, an inherited metabolic disease, is defined as when the body is unable to process copper, is treated with molybdenum. Molybdenum aids in nitrogen metabolism, aids in efficient iron absorption to prevent anemia, effectively treats sexual impotence and helps in the prevention of tooth decay.

Molybdenum reportedly protects cells from dangerous molecules or free radicals that would otherwise damage cells. The American Cancer Society is doing extensive research into this possibility.

The Recommended Daily Dosage for Molybdenum

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) was established by the the U.S. Food and Nutrition Board in 2001 and has not changed. The average dosage that the Board recommends is 45 - 50 micrograms per day for healthy adults. 

The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University lists the recommendations that were established in 2001: 

Please note that the recommended dosage pertains to both males and females.

• Infants 0-6 months - 2 micrograms per day
• Infants 7-12 months – 3 mcg per day         
• Children 1-3 years – 17 mcg per day
• Children 4-8 years – 22 mcg per day
• Children 9-13years – 34 mcg       
• Adolescents 14-18 years – 43 mcg per day
• Adults 19+ years – 45 mcg per day
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women – 50 mcg per day                 

The American Cancer Society is in agreement with the established amount, yet suggests that the typical dosage for the molybdenum supplement is 75 mcg daily. 

Exercise Caution with Molybdenum

Adherence to recommended doses is advised, as overdoses can lead to symptoms of copper deficiency. The symptoms of an overdose of molybdenum are rashes, fatigue, anemia, dizziness and low counts of white blood cells. 

The American Cancer Society states that prolonged exposure to high levels of molybdenum in workplaces where it is processed results in headaches, muscle and joint pain, weakness, fatigue and poor appetite. The dust from this product may be responsible for coughing, as well as an irritant for the throat and nose.  Protective gear should be worn in the workplace.

The Linus Pauling Institute reports only one known case of acute toxicity from the molybdenum supplement. The amount of 13.5 mg per day was consumed by an adult male over a period of 18 days. This resulted in neurological symptoms, such seizures and hallucinations. 

The same report continues on to speak of a controlled study, in which four, healthy male adults were given nearly 1.5 mg/day over a 24 day stretch, with no adverse effects noted. The tolerable Upper Intake Level for adults aged 19 years and older is listed as 2.0 mg/day or 2,000 mcg.

Conclusive Facts about Molybdenum Supplements

According to the U. S. Food and Nutrition Board, an intake of molybdenum at 45 micrograms per day or 75 micrograms per day when taken as a supplement, will adequately prevent deficiency of it. 

Are you undergoing a body building regimen or strenuous exercise program? If you desire to increase your molybdenum supplemental intake above the recommended RDA amount, it is best to consult your doctor or health care professional. 

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