Molybdenum is one of the rarest elements on Earth, yet it is found in all tissues of animals and humans. Check the role of molybdenum in the human body, the risk of its excess or deficiency and the best sources of this element.

Althoughmolybdenumcan be found in the human body in trace amounts, it plays an important role. Including enables the production of enzymes necessary for the absorption of sugars and fats, which means it is involved in the process of providing cells with energy. It is necessary for the proper absorption of iron, and thus protects us against anemia. It takes care of teeth and bones, improves immunity, is involved in cleansing the body of toxins, is essential for the proper growth of a young organism and has a positive effect on male fertility.

Molybdenum: excess and shortage

Molybdenum deficiency can have serious consequences for he alth and even life. Fortunately, if we eat vegetables and fruit, we are not in such a situation because molybdenum passes from the soil to the plants. Therefore, it does not need to be supplemented. The exception is patients with symptoms of hypoglycaemia, who are sometimes recommended to take mineral and vitamin preparations with molybdenum. But it must be done under the supervision of a doctor, because the excess of this element (consuming doses higher than 10 mg per day) is harmful to the digestive system and joints.

Molybdenum: where to look for it?

The amount of molybdenum in vegetables, fruits and grains depends on where they are grown. Plants grown in areas rich in this element may contain even several hundred times more than those grown in soil poor in molybdenum. The greatest amounts of molybdenum are found in calcareous and marshy soils. Good sources of this element are whole grain flour products, beans and peas, green-leaved vegetables and offal, as well as … hard water provided by public waterworks.

Important

Also valuable for industry

Pure molybdenum obtained by the mining industry is a silvery white metal, very hard, with one of the highest melting points of all elements. It is used, among others in aviation and for the production of incandescent lamps.

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