Molybdenum

Other name(s):

ammonium molybdate

General description

Molybdenum is an essential element. It’s a co-factor for several enzymes. It is stored mainly in the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, brain, and muscles.

Molybdenum is a part of several enzyme systems. These enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of xanthine, hypoxanthine, and sulfite. They’re also in charge of the detoxification of many harmful compounds.

The ability of tissues to store molybdenum varies with intake levels. It’s affected by the amount of copper and sulfate in the diet.

Unsubstantiated claims

Please note that this section reports on claims that have not yet been substantiated through studies.

Molybdenum may help treat arthritis. Studies are also looking to see if it can treat certain cancers.

Recommended intake

Molybdenum is measured in micrograms. The daily RDA is the Recommended Dietary Allowance.

Group	RDA
Infants (0–6 months)	2 mcg*
Infants (7 months to 1 year)	3 mcg*
Children (1–3 years)	17 mcg
Children (4–8 years)	22 mcg
Children (9–13 years)	34 mcg
Children (14–18 years)	43 mcg
Adults (19 years and older)	45 mcg
Pregnant and lactating women	50 mcg

*Adequate Intake (AI). This is based off the average intake of healthy breastfed infants.

Foods that contain molybdenum include legumes, cereals, and leafy vegetables.

Molybdenum levels in plants vary. They depend on the molybdenum content of the soil in which they were grown.

Molybdenum deficiency is very rare. It only occurs due to a serious, underlying issue.

Side effects, toxicity, and interactions

Too much molybdenum can cause a gout-like syndrome. Symptoms can include high levels of molybdenum in your blood, uric acid, and xanthine oxidase.

You shouldn’t take molybdenum supplements if you have biliary obstruction (gallstones) or kidney problems.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their healthcare providers before taking any supplements.

Molybdenum supplements can cause a copper deficiency. This is because molybdenum drives copper from tissue stores.