What is it:
Molybdenum is an essential mineral required in extremely small amounts for nitrogen metabolism. It aids in the final stages of the conversion of purines to uric acid and is instrumental in regulating pH balance in the body. It also helps promote normal growth and development, and may prevent anemia, tooth decay and impotency.
What does it do:
Tissue content of molybdenum is low, with the highest concentrations in the liver, kidney, adrenal gland and bone. It is a component of a number of enzymes, including involvement in the metabolism of sulfur amino acids, the oxidation of purines and pyrimidines, the production of uric acid and the oxidation of aldehydes.
Symptoms of deficiency:
Molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare and has only been identified in the presence of other serious disorders. Deficiencies are accompanied by abnormal excretion of sulfur metabolites, low uric acid concentrations, and elevated hypoxanthine and xanthine excretion. The absence of sulfite oxidase in the metabolic disorder leads to death at an early age.
Overdose/Cautions:
Some evidence suggests taking molybdenum supplements might cause joint pain. There isn't enough evidence to know what the effects might be of taking molybdenum supplements.
Natural food sources:
Peas
leafy vegetables
broccoli
cauliflower
nuts
cereals such as oats