Molybdenum an essential trace element for the body

Molybdenum : an essential trace element for the body

Molybdenum is a trace element essential to the body. It is found in very small amounts in the body, especially stored in the liver and kidneys. This oligo element allows in particular the synthesis of proteins, enzymes and purines which enter into the composition of the DNA.

Characteristics of molybdenum:

  • Oligo element present mainly in animal products
  • Role in the formation of DNA
  • Allows synthesis of proteins in the body
  • Positive Synergy with Iron, Zinc and Copper
  • Black Tea and Soy Decrease Absorption

Why integrate foods rich in molybdenum into food?

Molybdenum: definition and benefits

Molybdenum is a trace element with essential roles for the body.

Precursor of Amino Acids

Molybdenum is associated with enzymes to make amino acids that are the source of proteins.

Role in the manufacture of DNA

Associated with other enzymes, molybdenum participates in the creation of purines which are constituents of DNA.

20 foods rich in molybdenum

Where to find molybdenum in the diet?

Almost all foods contain a small amount of molybdenum. The table of nutritional composition of foods does not give detailed information on this subject. However the richest foods in molybdenum could be communicated, it is:

  • Liver
  • Kidney
  • Lenses
  • Chickpeas
  • White beans
  • Wheat
  • Corn
  • Rice
  • Nuts
  • Almond
  • Hazelnut
  • Zucchini
  • Tomato
  • Spinach
  • Yogurt
  • Milk
  • Cow’s milk cheese
  • Goat’s milk cheese
  • Sheep’s milk cheese

How to use molybdenum

Use of molybdenum

AFSSA has issued recommendations that provide intakes of 30 to 50 μg of molybdenum per day for a healthy adult.

How to use molybdenum as a dietary supplement?

As a dietary supplement, molybdenum is often combined with other minerals and trace elements (lithothamne, zinc, copper, iron, etc.). Molybdenum supplementation of 50 micrograms per day is generally recommended for the body’s needs to be covered. It is often used in multivitamin supplements or in more specific situations to treat certain renal or metabolic pathologies. However, before considering any supplementation, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Adverse effects of molybdenum

Consequence of a deficiency in molybdenum

Molybdenum deficiency has not been observed in healthy adults. However, in people with absorption disorders such as Crohn’s disease or parenteral nutrition (infusion) deficiency has been correlated with migraine, tachycardia and nausea and vomiting.

Can we observe a risk of molybdenum toxicity in case of overdose?

In case of excessive consumption of molybdenum, it is eliminated by the urinary way and thus does not involve complications for the body.

Interaction of molybdenum with other nutrients elements

Excessive consumption of soy, sulphates or black tea may reduce the assimilation of molybdenum.

In contrast, iron, zinc and copper have positive effects on the metabolism of molybdenum.

Chemical Properties

The molybdenum symbol is Mo, its atomic number is 42. The molybdenum has an atomic mass of 95.95 u and a density of 10.22 g / cm-3. It is a hard white transition metal, which is often used to harden alloys.

In the body, molybdenum is essential because it goes into the composition of DNA and proteins.

Nutrient History

Until the 18th century, no difference is made between molybdenum and other elements such as lead or carbon.

In the 1770s, Carl W. Scheele first succeeded in separating molybdenum from lead and isolating it to form molybdenum oxide and molybdenite.

It is only in the 19th century that scientists will discover all the possibilities offered by molybdenum in metallurgy. From this period, molybdenum begins to be widely used to make alloys or shields.