Molybdenum is an essential mineral in trace amounts for human, animal, and plant health. In humans and animals, it serves mainly as an essential cofactor of enzymes and aids in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Humans need only very small amounts of molybdenum. Deficiency is very rare in humans.

Sources

Plant: Legumes such as beans, lentils and peas as well as cereals and leafy vegetables

Animal: Liver

NOTE: The amount of molybdenum found in foods depends on both the food type and upon the soil in which the food grows. In general, the typical American diet contains molybdenum levels well above the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA).

« Although molybdenum does not have a known toxicity level in humans, taking high concentrations of molybdenum in supplements may have adverse effects on copper levels by interfering with its absorption.

« Molybdenum is abundant in human tooth enamel and may have a role in lowering the risk of tooth decay.