DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• Molybdenum is classified as a trace mineral. It is part of the enzymes, xanthine oxidase and aldehyde oxidase; possibly helps reduce incidence of dental caries; role in metabolism of purines and pyrimidines, and oxidation of sulfite.

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• Adults: 45 mcg.
• Pregnancy/Lactation: 50 mcg.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Legumes, dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables.
• Specifically: navy beans, black-eyed peas, lentils, split peas, lima beans, kidney beans, black beans, almonds, peanuts, chestnuts, macadamia nuts, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, lowfat yogurt, coconut, egg, turkey liver.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 100 mcg to 500 mcg.

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• None significant.

COMMENTS

• Molybdenum assists the body in detoxifying sulfites by converting them to nonirritating sulfates. (Some people with asthma react to sulfite food additives.) Molybdenum is a copper antagonist and some forms of it may be useful in treating Wilson’s disease.

CAUTIONS

• May aggravate gout.