There’s an essential trace element, not well-known like iron, copper, and zinc, but which is equally important and absolutely essential for life. In the human body, molybdenum is found in all tissues, and is especially concentrated in the liver, kidneys, and bones.

When consumed in optimal amounts, the trace element molybdenum supports:

1. the detoxification of drugs and other toxins.
2. a healthy brain and nervous system.
3. antioxidant, anti-aging functions.
4. healthy mitochondrial function.
5. a strong immune system.
6. strong bones and teeth.
7. cavity protection.

In humans and animals, a sufficient intake of molybdenum is required for the function of four enzymes:

• Sulfite oxidase converts sulfites from food and normal metabolic processes to sulfate.
• Xanthine oxidase converts nucleotides to the plasma antioxidant, uric acid.
• Aldehyde oxidase and xanthine oxidase catalyze hydroxylation reactions, and play a role in the metabolism of drugs and toxins.
• Mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component was recently discovered, but its role is thought to involve additional detoxification functions.

Is Essential for the Production of Important Antioxidants

Molybdenum is necessary for the production of uric acid, an important plasma antioxidant, and works with magnesium and selenium to boost levels of the powerful antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase.

Helps Reduce Toxic Aldehyde (and Sulfite) Levels in the Body

Candida albicans produces a toxic metabolite called acetaldehyde; as does alcohol consumption. Adequate molybdenum levels are required to detoxify toxic aldehydes such as acetaldehyde into, in this case, a non-toxic metabolite, acetic acid. Symptoms such as fatigue, headache, brain fog, irritability, depression, muscle soreness and sensitivity are signs of excess toxin (e.g. acetaldehyde) accumulation.

Processed and Refined Foods Reduce Molybdenum Intake

Molybdenum is depleted by environmental chemicals such as glyphosate, and excess copper consumption. While overt deficiency is rare, those who eat a lot of processed or refined foods might not be getting enough molybdenum for optimal health.

If you’re running a little low in this important mineral, as little as 50-100 mcg per day can offer wide-ranging benefits in mood, energy, and cognitive function through improved mitochondrial function and cellular detoxification.