Molybdenum

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What is Molybdenum?

Molybdenum is a micromineral mainly used to process proteins and genetic material (DNA). It also plays a role in breaking down drugs and toxins and lowering inflammation.

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Effects in Autism

Some studies show that autistic children have a higher risk of widespread micromineral deficiencies, including molybdenum. Molybdenum creates enzymes that break down proteins. The breakdown process leads to an unstable molecule that causes inflammation. Impaired enzyme activity leads to increased inflammation. This inflammation can damage cells, especially the central nervous system. Nervous system damage from inflammation has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.

         

Children with autistic spectrum disorder have been found to have a functional deficiency of molybdenum, and supplementation was shown to normalize levels for some children. Normalized levels of molybdenum reduced oxidative stress and improved sulfite levels. 

 

Effects on Heavy Metal Toxicity

Molybdenum assists in breaking down toxins so that they can be excreted in the urine. Molybdenum has been shown to alleviate heavy metal toxicity and increase defense against inflammation damage in plants, especially when combined with selenium.

Protection Against Sulfites

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Molybdenum assists in breaking down sulfites. Sulfites are found in foods and are an added preservative. Children with autism and a molybdenum deficiency have decreased sulfite regulation. Sulfite buildup causes inflammation which can increase allergy responses, and cause skin and digestion problems. 

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Sources of Molybdenum (Highest on Top):

1.       Black-eyed peas

2.       Beef liver

3.       Lima beans

4.       Plain low-fat yogurt

5.       2% milk

6.       Potato with skin

7.       Fortified cereals

8.       Banana