Molybdenum
The sulfite solution. Molybdenum is a trace mineral that activates enzymes critical for sulfur metabolism, particularly sulfite oxidase. If you react to wine, dried fruit, or sulfur-rich foods, molybdenum might be the missing link. It's also needed for uric acid production and aldehyde detoxification.
Molybdenum-Dependent Enzymes
Sulfite Oxidase
Converts toxic sulfite to safe sulfate. Essential for sulfur amino acid metabolism. Wine/sulfite sensitivity when low.
Xanthine Oxidase
Breaks down purines to uric acid. Also produces superoxide. Involved in gout.
Aldehyde Oxidase
Detoxifies aldehydes including acetaldehyde. Important for drug metabolism.
The Sulfite Connection
Sulfite Sensitivity Signs
- Reactions to wine (contains sulfites)
- Issues with dried fruit (preserved with sulfites)
- Headaches after certain foods
- Asthma triggered by sulfite foods
- General sulfur food sensitivity
How Mo Helps
- Activates sulfite oxidase enzyme
- Converts sulfite → sulfate (safe)
- Allows better sulfur tolerance
- May improve CBS/sulfur pathway issues
- 150-500μg often used therapeutically
Food Sources
Best Sources
Legumes (lentils, beans, peas), nuts, grains, liver. Soil content affects plant levels.
Absorption
Very well absorbed (40-100%). Quickly excreted—doesn't accumulate. Hard to become toxic from food.
Cautions
Copper Antagonism
High molybdenum can deplete copper. Don't supplement long-term without monitoring. Balance matters.
Upper Limit
2mg/day tolerable upper limit. Gout-like symptoms possible at very high doses (uric acid).