Molybdenum is a polyvalent metallic element that resembles chromium and tungsten in its properties; used to strengthen and harden steel and is also sometimes used in a powdered form fertiliser for some plants, such as cauliflower.
What is Molybdenum and should we worry about It?
Molybdenum is an essential trace element that is crucial for the survival of animals, and the human body also contains around 0.07 mg of molybdenum per kilogram of weight, in lower concentrations in the vertebrae and in higher concentrations in the liver and kidneys. It is also present in human tooth enamel and could prevent tooth decay.
Intake of molybdenum varies on one’s diet, as it can be found in different quantities in sunflower seeds, wheat flour, lentils, green beans, eggs, cucumbers, cereal grain, and in Pork, lamb, and beef liver. Molybdenum deficiency in the soil can cause a dietary deficiency which has been associated with increased rates of oesophageal cancer in many areas.
Molybdenum toxicity depends on its chemical state. Animal studies have shown that chronic ingestion of more than 10 mg/day of molybdenum can cause growth retardation, infertility, low birth weight, diarrhoea, and gout; it can also affect the kidneys, the lungs, and the liver. There are currently no human studies.
A study of molybdenum in the drinking water in the UK involved collecting samples of treated drinking water from twelve different water supply works which were monitored up to four times over an 18-month period; 24 domestic taps from three of their supply areas were also sampled.
The study indicated that mobility is limited and concentrations are generally low in relation to WHO health-based criteria. The samples were taken from 3 towns supplied uniquely by river water, upland reservoir water, and Chalk groundwater, and showed a virtually uniform concentration at each location. The results therefore indicated that the water distribution pipe-works have a negligible effect on supplied tap water molybdenum concentrations.
If you are still worried that there may be yet another toxic substance in your drinking water though, and you live in the Greater London area, it might be a good idea to contact Living-Water, a prestigious and trusted London water supply company, to arrange for a free needs-assessment to be done and to invest in one of the Living-Water bottled water coolers fitted with their Triple Activated Carbon Filter. At least that way you can be sure that the water you and yours are drinking is chilled, pure, toxin-free and great-tasting.
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