Molybdenum's therapeutic uses
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that plays a role in various biological processes, though its therapeutic uses are not extensively validated by scientific research. While the mineral is found in foods like dark leafy vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, its deficiency is rare. Claims about molybdenum's effectiveness in treating conditions such as female and male sexual dysfunction, insomnia, weight loss, and cancer lack robust scientific support, with many assertions made by advocates remaining unverified. The primary established therapeutic application for molybdenum is in treating Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency, a rare genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to utilize the mineral. Despite some small studies suggesting benefits for male fertility and inflammation reduction, further rigorous research is necessary to substantiate these claims. While generally safe at recommended dosages, excessive intake may lead to safety concerns, including copper deficiency and negative effects on fertility. Overall, while molybdenum is marketed for various health benefits, a cautious approach is advised due to the lack of strong evidence supporting its widespread use.
Molybdenum's therapeutic uses
- DEFINITION: Natural food and water substance used to treat specific health conditions.
- PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
- OTHER PROPOSED USES: Female sexual dysfunction, general well-being, insomnia, male sexual dysfunction, tooth decay prevention, weight loss, Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency, cancer, sulfite sensitivity
Overview
Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral. Deficiency of molybdenum is rare, but it may occur in certain parts of the world. In the twenty-first century, the marketing of molybdenum products for treating medical conditions is not founded on any meaningful scientific evidence. While animal, laboratory, and small-scale studies exist, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of molybdenum are needed to confirm its health benefits.
Requirements and Sources
Molybdenum is found in various foods, including dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Mineral water and hard tap water may also supply significant amounts of molybdenum.
Deficiency of molybdenum is believed to be rare. Although accurate recommended daily intake levels for molybdenum have not been determined, less precise, safe, and adequate intake levels have been set in the United States as follows: 15 to 50 micrograms (mcg) for persons up to three years of age, 30 to 75 mcg for those from four to six years old, 50 to 150 mcg for those seven to ten years old, and 75 to 250 mcg for those aged eleven and older.
Therapeutic Dosages
There are no known uses of molybdenum that would suggest doses other than the safe and adequate levels noted in the previous section. Molybdenum is marketed as a tablet and a liquid supplement containing the mineral in dissolved form. Despite widespread claims, no evidence exists that any form of molybdenum is absorbed to a markedly superior extent.
Therapeutic Uses
Internet sites that advocate molybdenum products make numerous health claims that lack scientific foundation. Some of these unsupported claims include that molybdenum regulates the body’s pH, enhances the body’s ability to burn fat, eliminates toxins, promotes general well-being, prevents tooth decay, aids sleep, reduces allergic reactions to chemicals such as MSG and sulfites, and increases male and female libido. None of these claims have any scientific support, and some (such as regulating the body’s pH) make no sense from a scientific point of view. Small human studies have shown that molybdenum might boost male fertility and lower inflammation levels in arthritis patients, but more studies are necessary.
Additionally, some manufacturers of molybdenum products often state that various diseases are commonly caused or worsened by molybdenum deficiency. These include acne, allergies, asthma, athlete’s foot, Bell’s palsy, bladder infection, candidiasis, canker sores, depression, diabetes, eczema, Gulf War syndrome, viral hepatitis, herpes simplex, liver cirrhosis, lupus, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, and prostatitis. However, all of these claims lack even the bare minimum of foundation. However, one area where supplementation with molybdenum is undoubtedly helpful is treating Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency, a rare genetic disorder where the body cannot process molybdenum effectively. This is the primary and most established use for molybdenum in the twenty-first century.
In certain areas of China, molybdenum deficiency may occur relatively commonly. These regions have higher rates of some forms of cancer; however, when molybdenum supplementation was tried, it failed to make a difference, perhaps because other unidentified deficiencies were involved as well. Other suggested therapeutic uses for molybdenum include reducing the risk of esophageal cancer, managing conditions such as Wilson’s disease and gout, and wound healing.
Safety Issues
When taken at recommended dosages, molybdenum should be safe. Excessive intake of molybdenum could, in theory, lead to copper deficiency. Excessive intake of molybdenum has also been linked to organ failure and brain damage. People with serious kidney disease should also avoid taking molybdenum (or any other supplement) except on the advice of a physician. One isolated report hints that excessive molybdenum intake can cause symptoms of psychosis. Despite its ability to increase fertility at certain doses, excessive intake of molybdenum has also been linked to a decrease in male fertility and a lowering of testosterone levels.
Bibliography
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Brewer, G. J. "Practical Recommendations and New Therapies for Wilson’s Disease." Drugs, vol. 50, 1995, pp. 240-9.
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