Health Guide

Molybdenum Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Molybdenum Alpha-Ketoglutarate is a highly bioavailable form of Molybdenum, an essential trace mineral that acts as a 'spark plug' for key enzymes in your body. You might know it simply as Molybdenum, but attaching it to Alpha-Ketoglutarate (a naturally occurring molecule involved in energy production) helps your body absorb and utilize it more efficiently. Think of it as a master cleaner: it activates enzymes that break down waste products and toxins (like sulfites found in food preservatives), ensuring your body runs cleanly and efficiently without building up metabolic junk.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Molybdenum Alpha-Ketoglutarate
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Daily Requirement vs. Common Intake

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Micrograms (mcg)
Intake Type

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Detoxification Support: It helps your body process and eliminate toxins, including sulfites often found in processed foods and wine.
  • Relieves Enzyme Deficiency: It is crucial for people with a rare genetic condition called 'Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency,' helping to prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals.
  • Connective Tissue Health: It plays a role in the formation of collagen, keeping your skin and joints healthy.

Deep Dive

Molybdenum is not something your body stores in large amounts, but it is vital for the function of four major enzymes. The Alpha-Ketoglutarate form is particularly interesting because it links the mineral to a key player in the Krebs cycle (how your cells make energy). This means you aren't just getting the mineral; you are getting a compound that integrates into your metabolic pathways. It helps break down sulfur-containing amino acids (like homocysteine) and processes drugs and pollutants so they can be safely excreted.

Natural Food Sources

The best way to get Molybdenum is through whole foods. Legumes and grains are the heavy hitters here.

FoodAmount (approximate)% Daily Value
Black Eyed Peas150 mcg333%
Lentils80 mcg177%
Kidney Beans60 mcg133%
Oats40 mcg88%
Potatoes25 mcg55%

Supplementation

Most adults need about 45 mcg per day. This specific form (Molybdenum Alpha-Ketoglutarate) is usually found in multivitamins or specialized 'metabolic support' supplements. It is generally recommended for those with poor diets or specific genetic enzyme deficiencies, rather than the general healthy population.

Top Food Sources

Black Eyed Peas
Exceeds daily requirement significantly
Lentils
Best plant-based source
Kidney Beans
Great for stews and salads
Oats
Best breakfast source
Tomatoes
Easy to add to any meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Alpha-Ketoglutarate is a carrier molecule. It helps transport the Molybdenum across cell membranes more easily, potentially increasing its absorption and utilization in enzymatic reactions.
Rare, but can include rapid heart rate, headache, vomiting, and coma (severe cases). Mild signs might be poor metabolism of sulfites (bad reaction to wine/processed meats).
Yes, you likely already get plenty! Legumes, grains, and leafy greens are rich in molybdenum. Supplementation is usually unnecessary unless advised by a doctor.
No. Molybdenum is very stable during cooking. You won't lose significant amounts by boiling or roasting your vegetables.

Safety & Side Effects

Molybdenum is generally considered safe with low toxicity, but high doses (above 450 mcg/day) can cause issues like gout-like symptoms. People with kidney disease or liver failure should be cautious, as they may not be able to clear excess minerals efficiently. Always consult a doctor if you are taking other medications, specifically copper supplements, as high molybdenum can reduce copper absorption.

Scientific References

  • [1]Institute of Medicine (US) Panel on Micronutrients. (2001). *Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc.* National Academies Press.
  • [2]Schwarz, G., & Belshaw, N. (2004). 'Molybdenum cofactor deficiency.' *Trends in Molecular Medicine*.
  • [3]Vyskocil, A., & Viau, C. (1999). 'Molybdenum.' *Journal of Applied Toxicology*.