Molybdenum is a required cofactor for several critical enzymes, including sulfite oxidase, aldehyde oxidase, and xanthine oxidase. These enzymes are essential for the metabolism of sulfur-containing compounds, detoxification processes, and purine breakdown.
While deficiency is rare, marginal intake or increased need may impair sulfite metabolism and detoxification capacity.
Functions:
Converts sulfites to sulfates via sulfite oxidase
Supports detoxification of aldehydes and xenobiotics
Participates in purine metabolism and uric acid formation
Supports normal liver enzyme activity
Aids protein and amino acid metabolism
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral commonly used to support:
Sulfur amino acid metabolism
Detoxification of sulfites and aldehydes
Liver enzyme function
Protein metabolism
Sensitivity to sulfites (e.g. wine, preservatives)
Metabolic enzyme activity
Molybdenum is found primarily in plant-based foods, with content influenced by soil composition.
Animal Sources:
Small amounts in milk and dairy products
Plant-Based Sources:
Legumes (lentils, beans, peas)
Whole grains
Nuts and seeds
Leafy vegetables
Synergistic Nutrients:
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): Supports enzyme activity
Sulfur-containing amino acids (methionine, cysteine): Substrates for sulfite metabolism
Magnesium: Supports overall enzymatic reactions
B-complex vitamins: Support protein and detox metabolism
Typical Dosages:
Maintenance: 45–75 µg/day
Functional support (sulfite sensitivity, detox support): 100–230 µg/day
Upper supplemental range: 250–500 µg/day
Excess intake may interfere with copper metabolism
High doses may increase uric acid levels
Use caution in individuals with gout
NIH Fact Sheet on Molybdenum: ods.od.nih.gov
Linus Pauling Institute – Molybdenum: lpi.oregonstate.edu
Turnlund et al., Am J Clin Nutr (1995) – Molybdenum metabolism
Johnson et al., J Nutr (1990) – Molybdenum and enzyme activity
Schwarz & Belaidi, J Nutr (1975) – Biological role of molybdenum