Biological function

Molybdenum is an essential trace element, required by all living things. It is found in a wide variety of foods including legumes, nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables and organ meats such as liver. However, if you live in an area that is depleted of this mineral, then it's important to add a daily molybdenum supplement.

Nutrition and Absorption

A healthy diet containing plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts and other sources of molybdenum is the best way to get this trace element into your system. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adults is 45 mcg per day; pregnant or nursing women should aim for 50 mcg, and those on a low-sodium diet should take even more.

The body's primary source of dietary molybdenum is the kidneys, which are responsible for excreting excess amounts of this trace element from the body. This means that it is not readily absorbed into the bloodstream, though some adults do absorb up to 40% of their dietary molybdenum intake from food.

Bone health

In addition to its role as a trace element, molybdenum is also important for bone growth and development. In one observational study involving 1,496 adults, it was found that an increase in molybdenum intake levels can cause lumbar spine bone density to decrease in women over the age of 50.

Because of its lubricating and antiwear properties, organic molybdenum is an excellent friction reducer for engine oils and industrial lubricants. In addition, it is an effective corrosion inhibitor and antioxidant. It is often used in a variety of engine oils, metalworking compositions and industrial lubricants and gear oils.