Many of our body’s functions are controlled and performed by things called enzymes, not unlike the ones found in washing detergents that can miraculously wash away stains. The removal of an ungraceful blob of tomato sauce is impressive, and relieving, but the real amazement comes from the multitude of enzymes found in our body. They help to breakdown sugars, proteins, fats, even alcohol and other toxic compounds that find their way into our body, and they also help to control basic functions like the pumping of our heart. They are fundamental to our being and need certain nutrients to function; molybdenum is one of them.

Molybdenum helps to metabolize fats and carbohydrates, as well as breakdown alcohol and sulfites in our body. Sulfites are produced by our body in small amounts, they are also used as a preservative in some dried fruits and other packaged and prepared foods, and are also used in winemaking. So when a glass or two of wine gives us a rosy smile, although the alcohol may be responsible for the smile, the other feelings may be coming from the sulfites. This is when our dear friend molybdenum gets to work.

Molybdenum is present in a variety of foods and a deficiency is rare in healthy populations. Like with many nutrients, eating a balanced and varied diet is the best way to ensure we get a good dose of this trace element.

If we’re lacking in dietary molybdenum, then we may experience a build up of sulfites and urates in our blood. A healthy dose of molybdenum would otherwise break them down.

Dietary molybdenum deficiency is not to be confused with the genetic disease, molybdenum cofactor deficiency. This is a rare disease that interferes with how the body uses molybdenum. If not detected soon after birth, sulfites can increase to unhealthy levels and quickly progress to serious neurological damage and death. This is the worst case scenario and once again, very rare.