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Molybdenum deficiency is rare and occurs when the body lacks or cannot break down the mineral. It is essential for liver function, regulates metabolism, and helps the body use iron. Too much molybdenum can cause side effects, but it is rare.
Molybdenum deficiency is very rare and occurs when the body lacks or is unable to break down the mineral molybdenum. This is a mineral that helps in detoxification of the liver. It also functions as a cofactor in many enzymes essential to the function of the human body. The body’s molybdenum requirements are relatively low compared to the other minerals it needs, and molybdenum deficiency does not normally occur in natural settings.
Most cases of molybdenum deficiency occur in those who were born without the enzyme required to break down the mineral, resulting in very rare recessive metabolism disorders. There has only been one well-documented case of acquired molybdenum deficiency. The patient developed rapid heart and respiratory rates, night blindness, and eventually became comatose.
Molybdenum requirements are relatively low in humans. Additionally, molybdenum can be easily obtained through a diet of beans, dark green leafy vegetables, and certain grains. In fact, a lack of molybdenum has never been observed in a completely healthy patient. Those most at risk of developing it are patients who are fed intravenously. For those who suffer from molybdenum deficiency, a change in diet or taking molybdenum supplements can reverse the condition.
Although the two are connected, molybdenum deficiency should not be confused with molybdenum cofactor deficiency. Molybdenum cofactor deficiency is a rare metabolic disorder in which the body lacks the enzyme xanthine dehydrogenase, the enzyme aldehyde oxidase, and the enzyme sulfite oxidase. These enzymes are necessary to metabolize xanthine, a base that is converted into uric acid necessary for healthy brain function. Molybdenum cofactor deficiency can cause severe neurological symptoms, including seizures and coma.
Molybdenum as a mineral has several benefits for the human body. It is essential for liver function as it helps the liver to filter blood in the body. Molybdenum regulates the metabolism of calcium, magnesium and copper. It also facilitates the body’s use of iron, which is necessary for normal growth and development. Molybdenum has been associated with bone growth and reduced risk of caries. Some studies even link this mineral to a low risk of stomach and esophageal cancer.
Too much molybdenum can also be bad for the body. A large amount of molybdenum can cause the body to use copper or alter alkaline phosphatase activity. Some side effects of too much molybdenum are diarrhea, anemia, and joint swelling. While getting too much molybdenum isn’t good for the body, it’s just as rare as molybdenum deficiency, because the body quickly excretes the mineral if consumed in large amounts.
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