Molybdenum

From CopperWiki

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral and is required in relatively minute quantity in the diet. It is found in several tissues of the human body and is concentrated primarily in the liver, kidney, bone, and skin. It is an essential component of enzyme systems of the body. Organic forms of molybdenum are found in almost all living matter, from bacteria to animals, including humans.

[edit] Functions

Molybdenum has an important role as a cofactor for enzymes which are essential for the metabolism of sulfur containing amino acids and metabolism of drugs and toxins. It is thought to have antioxidant properties and helps the body to break down harmful substances. Molybdenum is also involved in reactions that form bone, cartilage and blood. It is an essential mineral needed for normal growth and development.

Other functions of molybdenum include a role in utilization of iron, and hence prevention of anemia. It is also present within human tooth enamel and may help prevent tooth decay. Molybdenum helps prevent sexual impotence in men, has a possible role in protection against cancer, reduces symptoms of allergy, is involved in protein synthesis and improves all-round health.

[edit] Food Sources

The amount of molybdenum in plant foods is dependent upon the mineral content of the soil. The greater the molybdenum content of the soil, greater is the molybdenum in foods grown in that soil. Legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas are the richest sources of molybdenum. Other good sources include whole grains and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach. Fruits and many vegetables are generally low in molybdenum content.

[edit] Recommended Dosage

The daily recommended dosage for molybdenum in micrograms (mcg) is as follows:

Children 1-3 years: 17 micrograms (mcg)
Children 4-8 years: 22 mcg
Children 9-13 years: 34 mcg
Adolescents 14-18 years: 43 mcg
Adults 19 years and older: 45 mcg
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: 50 mcg

[edit] Deficiency

Dietary molybdenum deficiency is rare in healthy people. However, it has been identified in the presence of other serious disorders. Certain enzymes needed by the body are affected when molybdenum levels are low. The symptoms associated with low molybdenum levels include irritability, irregular heart beat, anemia, inability to produce uric acid and general poor health.

[edit] Toxicity

Molybdenum toxicity appears to be relatively low in humans. Gout like symptoms have been reported due to the increased blood levels of uric acid. Excessive molybdenum can cause diarrhea and result in slow growth. High amounts of molybdenum can interfere with the body's uptake of copper and can lead to possible copper deficiency. However, molybdenum toxicity from food is highly unlikely.

Apart from dietary excess, mining and metalworking gives rise to molybdenum fumes. Though, no long-term effects have been associated with such exposure to molybdenum, prolonged exposure can cause irritation to the eyes and skin. The upper limit of safety for molybdenum established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine is approximately 2,000 mcg daily for adults.