Molybdenum is most likely one of the least known minerals. It is best known for its role in eradicating esophageal cancer that was prevalent in the Lin Xian region of China for almost 2,000 years. Once the soil was fortified with molybdenum and vitamin C was made available to the population, the occurrence of esophageal cancer has declined dramatically.

Functions	Proper formation of bones and teeth, fetal development, the formation of proteins. It is also important in the metabolism of copper and sulfer, it is involved with carbohydrate metabolism, plays a role in the prevention of anemia, and is a necessary element in the enzymes xanthine oxidase (mobilizes iron from the liver) and aldehyde oxidase (oxidation of fats).
Deficiencies can cause	None known in humans, but in animals deficiencies have been known to cause weight loss, anorexia, reduced life expectancy, and disturbed microbiological processes in the rumen.
Toxicity can cause	Growth retardation, weight loss, excessive Uric acid formation which could result in the condition known as Gout (Uric acid crystals deposited in the joints and the kidneys)
Food Sources	Animal organs, beans, Brewer's yeast, brown rice, cereal grains, dark leafy vegetables, legumes, peas, shellfish, sunflower seeds.
R.D.A. ESSADI (Estimated Safe and Adequate Daily Intake)*	Infants 0-0.5 year           15-30mcg 0.5-1 year           20-40mcg Children 1-3 years             25-50mcg 4-6 years             30-75mcg 7-10 years           50-150mcg Young Adults and Adults 11+ years            75-250mcg
Cautions:	Do not take over 15 mg of molybdenum daily. Doses this large could lead to the development of gout.

Comments: Supplemental molybdenum can be affected by both heat and moisture. High intakes of sulfer may decrease molybdenum levels, while large doses (over 15 mg) of molybdenum may interfere with copper metabolism.