Molybdenum: Benefits, Sources & Supplement Information

Molybdenum is a trace element naturally manufactured in the body. The highest levels of molybdenum are in the liver, bones and teeth. Molybdenum is required to produce an enzyme necessary for the body to use iron.

Benefits

• Supplementing molybdenum levels can help prevent anemia, cavities, impotence and increases the overall sense of well-being.

Sources

• Molybdenum is available as a supplement and is also found in dark green, leafy vegetables, liver, peas, beans and grains.

Utilization

• The stomach and small intestine rapidly absorb molybdenum. The body typically absorbs from 50 percent to 90 percent of the molybdenum obtained from food, and around 90 percent from supplements, according to Health Vitamin Guides.

Dosage

• The recommended daily allowance of molybdenum is 75 mcg, though some people supplement up to 500 mcg daily.

Toxicity

• It is possible to take too much molybdenum, to the point of toxicity. Symptoms of molybdenum toxicity include swelling and stiffness in the joints, diarrhea and anemia, along with poor growth in children.