Phosphorus
Phosphorus is among the major minerals required by our bodies in fairly significant amounts to maintain health. It is contained in a diversity of foods, principally protein-rich foods. Most of the phosphorus in the body is found in the cells,teeth, and bones.
Functions Of Phosphorus
- For strong and healthy bones and teeth-Phosphorus works together with Vitamin D and calcium to ensure the development of strong and healthy bones and teeth. You need it alongside the mentioned nutrients to sustain the health of your bone and teeth.
- For the repair, development and maintenance of cells and tissues – Phosphorus is needed by cells and tissues for their development and repair.
- The synthesis of the genetic materials -It is involved in the synthesis of genetic building blocks such as DNA and RNA.
- Involved in energy production and storage- Phosphorus also helps the body make Adenosine Triphospahate(ATP),which is the major energy source for cellular processes.
Food Sources
- Meat and poultry
- Milk and dairy products
- Fish
- Eggs
- Nuts
- Grains
- Seeds
- Dried beans and peas
The phosphorus contained in plant sources such as grains, nuts, and seeds is less bio-available(not easily absorbed) since it is bound to phytate.
People At Risk Of Deficiency
- Individuals with poor dietary intake or eating disorders –Such individuals are likely to become deficient in phosphorus as they severely limit its intake.
- Individuals with certain health conditions-Certain conditions such as alcoholism and diabetes, can contribute to a decrease in phosphorus levels in the body. Conditions such as celiac disease and Chrons that interfere with the absorption of nutrients can also predispose one to a deficiency.
Phosphorus Deficiency
Phosphorus deficiency from dietary sources is unlikely because it is abundant in food sources. Its deficiency is usually associated with particular health conditions or disorders such as alcoholism and diabetes or medications(e.g. aluminium -containing antacids) that decrease the quantity of phosphorus in the body.
Symptoms of low phosphorus can include:
- Joint pain
- Bone pain
- Reduced appetite
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Poor bone development in children
- In severe cases, it can cause hypophosphatemia (low levels of phosphate in the blood).Severe phosphorus deficiency can also cause weak and brittle bones over time.
Phosphorus Toxicity
Phosphorus toxicity is very unlikely from dietary intake only. Excess phosphate intake can be toxic as it can cause diarrhoea along with the hardening of soft tissues such as the muscles, blood vessels, and organs.
In rare circumstances can you have too much of the mineral in your blood. Though persons unable to regulate calcium and those with kidney malfunctions may develop this complication, which leads to hyperphosphataemia. Those with renal conditions are unable to effectively excrete the extra amounts of phosphorus leading it to accumulate in the blood. Over time, an accumulation of phosphorus can cause serious health outcomes such as bone loss(the phosphorus draws calcium from the bones), the hardening of soft tissues (the calcium deposits in the soft tissues), and secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Hyperphosphatemia can cause secondary hyperparathyroidism, leading to bone disease. Therefore, it is important to manage phosphorus intake especially for persons with renal conditions. To prevent hyperphosphatemia, a phosphorus-restricted diet may complement the usage of phosphorus-binders among persons with chronic renal failure. Phosphorus can be restricted to 600 to 1200 milligrams in a day; though this may imply that other minerals such as calcium require supplementation because certain foods that contain phosphorus also contain calcium, and restriction can lead to deficits of the latter mineral.
High phosphorus levels can also negatively affect your body’s capacity to effectively utilize other minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
RDA
- 700 milligrams for adults
Nutrient Interactions With Phosphorus
Vitamin D and calcium-Phosphorus, calcium, and vitamin D play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D helps in the absorption of phosphorus from food sources, and to achieve this, vitamin K is necessary. Consequently, adequate amounts of these micro-nutrients are critical for optimal bone development and health. The proper balance between phosphorus and calcium intake is also critical for your bone health .
Drug Intercations With Phosphorus
Several medicines can reduce your body’s phosphorus levels including:
- Insulin
- Anticonvulsants
- Aluminium-containing Antacids
- ACE inhibitors
- Corticosteroids
Alternatively, the intake of phosphorus-containing laxatives, Vitamin D supplements, bisphosphonates, and oral phosphorus supplements can increase phosphorus levels in your blood.
A nutritious and varied diet should offer adequate phosphorus for most individuals.Those who are likely to be deficient or have excess phosphorus in the body, maybe due to certain medications or conditions, should consult a dietitian. A balance between phosphorus and calcium intake is key for bone health.