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.
It is found in very small amounts in the body but is crucial for maintaining good health, especially in processing certain substances like sulfur and sulfites.
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How Molybdenum Affects Autism
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Inflammation and Nervous System Health: Studies show that children with autism may have a higher risk of molybdenum deficiency. This deficiency can impair the body's ability to break down proteins properly, which leads to an unstable molecule that causes inflammation. This chronic inflammation can harm the nervous system and contribute to the symptoms of autism.
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Oxidative Stress and Sulfite Regulation: Children with autism may also have issues with processing sulfites, which are found in some foods and act as preservatives. Without enough molybdenum, the body has trouble breaking down sulfites, leading to increased inflammation, allergic reactions, and problems with digestion and the skin. Ensuring proper molybdenum levels can help improve sulfite regulation and reduce these symptoms.
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Heavy Metal Toxicity: Molybdenum helps the body break down toxins, including heavy metals, so they can be excreted through urine. This can reduce the harmful effects of heavy metals, which are sometimes higher in children with autism.
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Restoring Normal Function: Some studies have shown that supplementation of molybdenum can normalize levels in children with autism, reducing oxidative stress and improving sulfite metabolism. This leads to better overall health, fewer symptoms of autism, and improved well-being.
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Molybdenum Deficiency Risks
If your child is deficient in molybdenum, they may experience:
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Increased inflammation in the body, which can worsen symptoms of autism.
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Difficulty processing sulfites, leading to digestive problems, skin issues, and allergic reactions.
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Impaired enzyme activity, which affects the breakdown of proteins and the regulation of important substances in the body.
Recommended Dosage of Molybdenum for Children
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Infants (0-6 months): 0.016 mg/day
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Children (1-3 years): 0.017 mg/day
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Children (4-8 years): 0.022 mg/day
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Children (9-13 years): 0.034 mg/day
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Teens (14-18 years): 0.045 mg/day
It’s important to note that molybdenum deficiencies are rare, and most children get enough from their diet. However, if supplementation is needed, consult with a healthcare provider for guidance.
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Food Sources of Molybdenum
Here are some foods that are rich in molybdenum:
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Black-eyed peas (highest source)
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Beef liver
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Lima beans
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Plain low-fat yogurt
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2% milk
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Potatoes (with skin)
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Fortified cereals
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Bananas
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Long-grain white rice
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Fortified bread
Incorporating these foods into your child’s diet can help ensure they are getting enough molybdenum.
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Key Takeaways
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Molybdenum Supports Nervous System Health: It plays an important role in reducing inflammation and supporting healthy brain function, which can benefit children with autism.
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Molybdenum Helps with Detoxification: It helps the body break down and eliminate toxins, which may be helpful for children with autism who are exposed to higher levels of heavy metals.
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Sulfite Regulation: Molybdenum assists in processing sulfites, which can reduce inflammation and symptoms like digestive issues, skin problems, and allergies.
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Monitor Intake: Most children get enough molybdenum from food, but if you're concerned about deficiencies, talk to your child’s doctor about whether supplementation is necessary.
By ensuring your child gets enough molybdenum, you can help support their overall health, reduce inflammation, and potentially improve autism symptoms.