Molybdenum and Health

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Molybdenum, its known benefits and side effects, and our tips and recommendation on where to find its best sources will be the focus of this article.

Molybdenum, an essential mineral for both animals and humans alike, is most heavily concentrated in the liver, kidney, adrenal gland, and bones.

The nutrient, a component of many enzymes, including sulfide oxide, supports the metabolism of sulfur amino acids, xanthine oxide, oxidates, purines ,and pyramidenes, as well a the production of uric acid. The enzymes alldehyde oxidase and xanthin oxidase share a common molybdenum factor.

Molybdenum, found in legumes, cereal products, and leafy vegetables, is usually easily absorbed.

The nutrient can, however, be affected by particular food components.

Signs of Molybdenum Deficiency

Molybdenum deficiency is normally seen only in individuals with serious disorders, caused by the metabolic defects identified with the absence of three molybdenum enzymes.

Deficiency in metabolic disorders results in abnormal excretion of sulfur metabolites, hypothyroxine and xanthine, and low uric acid concentration.

The absence of sulfide oxidase in metabolic disorders, causing toxicity and auto-immune disorders, can lead to premature death. Molybdenum toxicity is more likely than its deficiency. Common in cattle grazing in pastures with molybdenum-rich soil, molybdenum toxicity may cause gout in those who take dosages of 10-15 milligrams daily.

We need this nutrient, however, to maintain our overall health, so it is essential we get the right amount in our dietary intake.

How to Select Molybdenum

Because nutritional supplement production, both in the U.S. and other countries is largely unregulated, both governmental and private studies have shown that consumers of nutritional supplements have only a 1 in 5 chance of purchasing a supplement contain the amount of ingredients stated on the product label, or worse yet, a supplement that is not contaminated with health-impairing toxins.

We therefore advise consumers to buy health supplements from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities, which adhere to the world's most exacting manufacturing standards. Doing as we suggest will ensure you of getting contaminant-free Molybdenum, in the full amount for which you have paid.

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