Phosphorus

What is Phosphorus?

Phosphorus is an essential trace mineral which plays many important roles in the body. Phosphorus, along with other trace minerals like calcium, plays a structural role in healthy bones. It is also structurally important to cells and cell membranes, and is essential for the production and transfer of energy in the human body.

Next to calcium, phosphorus is the body's 2nd most abundant mineral, but it should be consumed in greater quantity. 80% of it is present in the bones and teeth. It may be beneficial in the treatment of fractures, brittle bones, rickets, and teeth and gum disorders. Older people need more phosphorus because their systems generally do not absorb it too well.

Phosphorus is needed for healthy nerve impulses, normal kidney functioning, and the utilization of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and for energy production.

Phosphorus plays a large part in many important chemical reactions. It is associated with other important substances, such as enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates. Phosphorus is necessary for all the muscles.

Some of the important sources of phosphorus include Milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, American cheese, pork, hamburger, tuna, lobster, chicken, and sunflower seeds.

Side Effects and Warnings of Phosphorus

A deficiency in phosphorus is rare but can result in weak or fragile bones, teeth, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, joint pain and stiffness, confusion, less energy, and a susceptibility to infections.

A deficiency in the calcium-phosphorus balance can lead to diseases like rickets, arthritis, and tooth decay. Antacids, too much iron or magnesium depletes phosphorus levels.

Since the body efficiently stores phosphorus, there is no known toxicity, but long-term excessive use may result in the inhibiting of calcium absorption. Taking phosphorus beyond the daily upper limit, which is four grams for adults under 70 and 3 grams for everyone over 70, can lead to the hardening of bodily tissues and diarrhoea.

Before taking any phosphorus supplements, you should consult your doctor to find out how effective it would be for you and its safety.

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