Molybdenum (Mo)
Cofactor for sulfite oxidase and xanthine oxidase — supports sulfite detoxification, purine metabolism, and drug breakdown.
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that functions as a cofactor for several important enzymes including sulfite oxidase, xanthine oxidase, and aldehyde oxidase. These enzymes are involved in detoxification of sulfites, metabolism of purines to uric acid, and breakdown of drugs and toxins. Deficiency is extremely rare due to widespread occurrence in foods, but supplementation may help those with sulfite sensitivity.
Enables sulfite detoxification
Involved in purine metabolism
Helps break down aldehydes
How Molybdenum works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
50-150mcg daily
Loading: Not required
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Sodium Molybdate or Molybdenum Glycinate | Recommended |
| 💊Ammonium Molybdate | Alternative |
All common forms are well-absorbed. Often included in multivitamins at adequate levels.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Well-absorbed in most forms. Most people get adequate amounts from diet.
Improved sulfite tolerance
Support for molybdenum-dependent enzymes
May help improve sulfite metabolism
High molybdenum may interfere with copper absorption
Tip: High doses increase uric acid; stay within recommended range
Top studies from 40+ peer-reviewed papers
Cao L et al. • Obesity surgery (2023)
“A high deficiency rate of serum iron, zinc, copper, chlorine, phosphorus, and calcium was seen after bariatric surgery.”
Durkalec MM et al. • Environmental science and pollution research international (2023)
“This systematic-review examined the effects of Molybdenum.”
Gu T et al. • Clinical rheumatology (2022)
“The Author(s), under exclusive licence to International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR).”
Gui JY et al. • The Science of the total environment (2022)
“The regulatory mechanisms of Se on these micronutrients are also analyzed.”
Baj J et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2020)
“However, it can be assumed that altered concentrations of those elements are crucial regarding the onset and exaggeration of either psychotic or negative symptoms or cognitive dysfunctions.”
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