Molybdenum is a metallic element which is essential for human health and the health of our planet as it is vital to several processes involving the carbon, nitrogen and sulphur cycles which are critical to plant life2.

Why does it matter to me?

Molybdenum is essential for the function of several important sulphur containing enzymes that exist within your body (molybdoenzymes). One of these is important for making amino acids which are the building blocks of proteins1.

Molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare due to its universal presence in all animals and plants. Indeed, there have been no recorded examples a dietary based molybdenum specific deficiency syndrome ever recorded in humans.

Consumption of a healthy balanced and varied diet will certainly provide all the molybdenum that your body requires3. 

Which food do I need to eat to get some?

Good food sources include legumes, such as beans, lentils, and peas, grain products and nuts are also good sources.

The RDA (recommend daily amount) for molybdenum is set at around 45 micrograms but most people get around double this every day as molybdenum is in so many ingredients4.