Molybdenum

Also known as: Mo, molybdenum mineral, sodium molybdate, ammonium molybdate

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Essential trace mineral. Limited human evidence for supplementation benefits beyond basic nutritional needs.

What it does

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that the body needs in tiny amounts to activate certain enzymes involved in processing sulfur-containing compounds and metabolizing drugs and toxins. The...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

No established dose from provided studies
Found in

Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder, Augustinus Bader The Hair Revitalizing Complex, SlimFast High Protein Shakes and 17 more

What the Science Says

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that the body needs in tiny amounts to activate certain enzymes involved in processing sulfur-containing compounds and metabolizing drugs and toxins. The provided research papers do not include clinical trials testing molybdenum supplements in humans for health outcomes. One study noted molybdenum's role in enzyme-based drug metabolism, and another found associations between blood molybdenum levels and functional disability in older adults, but neither establishes a clear supplementation benefit.

What It Doesn't Do

No evidence from these studies that molybdenum supplements boost energy, detox your body, improve fertility, or enhance athletic performance. Don't confuse industrial molybdenum alloys (used in knee implants and orthodontic wires) with dietary molybdenum — they are completely different contexts. No proof it prevents disease or improves IVF outcomes on its own.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Molybdenum activates enzymes that help the body break down certain drugs and sulfur compounds.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 31182423

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown from provided studies — no human pharmacokinetic data for dietary molybdenum supplementation was included in the provided papers.

Red Flags to Watch For

High soil molybdenum levels (200 mg/kg) exceeded maximum tolerable limits for cattle in one study — excessive intake can be toxic
Most papers provided are about industrial molybdenum alloys or environmental contamination, not human dietary supplementation — marketing claims may be misleading
No clinical trials in the provided data tested molybdenum supplements for any human health outcome
Molybdenum is widely available in food; deficiency is extremely rare, making supplementation unnecessary for most people

Supplement

Mostly Legit

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Molybdenum do?

Essential trace mineral. Limited human evidence for supplementation benefits beyond basic nutritional needs.

What is the effective dose of Molybdenum?

No established dose from provided studies

Is Molybdenum safe?

High soil molybdenum levels (200 mg/kg) exceeded maximum tolerable limits for cattle in one study — excessive intake can be toxic

What doesn't Molybdenum do?

No evidence from these studies that molybdenum supplements boost energy, detox your body, improve fertility, or enhance athletic performance.

Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25