Molybdenum
Also known as: Mo, molybdenum chelate, sodium molybdate, ammonium molybdate
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that the body needs in tiny amounts to activate certain enzymes, including xanthine oxidase, which is involved in breaking down purines and producing uric acid. It is found naturally in foods like legumes, grains, and leafy vegetables, and most people get enough through diet alone. The provided research papers do not include clinical trials testing molybdenum supplements in humans for any health outcome, so no evidence-based dose or benefit can be stated.
What It Doesn't Do
No evidence from the provided studies that molybdenum supplements improve energy, detox the body, boost immunity, or treat any disease. Not shown to reduce inflammation or support joint health in humans based on these papers. Don't believe claims that supplementing it fills a common deficiency — true deficiency is extremely rare.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral detected in the majority of human populations as a urinary biomarker, suggesting ubiquitous dietary exposure (PMID: 41912635). It plays a role as a cofactor in enzymes involved in drug biotransformation, including xanthine oxidase-related pathways relevant to uric acid metabolism (PMID: 31182423, PMID: 41855634). Experimental research has explored molybdenum nanodots (MNDs) as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers in wound-healing biomaterial systems, though this is preclinical and not applicable to dietary supplementation (PMID: 41812869).
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown based on provided studies — no human absorption or pharmacokinetic data was included in the provided papers
Red Flags to Watch For
- None of the 10 provided PubMed papers actually test molybdenum supplementation in humans — most are about metal alloys, environmental exposure, or unrelated topics
- True molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare in people eating a normal diet, making supplementation unnecessary for most adults
- High molybdenum intake may interfere with copper absorption — a risk not addressed in any provided study
- Products containing molybdenum often make broad detox or enzyme-support claims that have no backing in the provided clinical literature
Products Containing Molybdenum
See how Molybdenum is used in these analyzed products:
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: 2026-04-06