Phosphorus(P)

Also known as: P, phosphate

Phosphorus:

Phosphorus is a dietary mineral that is found in every cell of the body, although it is primarily present in our bones and teeth.

As an essential element for all living cells, phosphorus is readily available in most food sources.

Deficiencies in phosphorus are rare, they can result in bone loss just as calcium deficiencies do.

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiencies:

• Anxiety
• Bone pain
• Fatigue
• Irregular breathing
• Irritability
• Numbness
• Skin sensitivity
• Trembling
• Weakness
• Weight changes

Home Remedies using Phosphorus:

Benefits and Uses of Phosphorus:

Phosphorus is needed for healthy bone and teeth formation. Research shows that calcium needs phosphorus and magnesium for more efficient absorption.

If one of these minerals is present in either excessive or insufficient amounts, adverse effects on the body will happen.

Other benefits of phosphorus include:

• Creating and managing energy
• Assisting the body in the utilization of B vitamins
• Assisting in the contraction of muscles (most notably the heart muscles)
• Maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance
• Aiding in the excretion of waste from the kidneys
• Needed for blood clotting
• In maintaining the regularity of your heartbeat
• and Aiding in transmission of nerve impulses

Phosphorus and calcium are essential to supporting and increasing bone mass, making it crucial for women over sixty to get efficient amounts of both in their diet. It is reported that on average, 85% of the phosphorus found in the adult body is bone with the remaining 15% found in soft tissues.

Phosphorus is an important component in DNA, RNA and the phospholipids which form cell membranes. Also, it plays a part in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a molecule the body uses to store energy.

Phosphorus plays an important role in the body’s utilization of carbohydrates and fats.

The recommended daily allowance of phosphorus for adults is 700mg a day. This is believed to be an adequate amount of phosphorus to meet cellular and bone formation needs.

Phosphorus is found commonly in processed cooked foods and carbonated soft drinks.

Healthier options include: asparagus, bran, brewer’s yeast, corn, dairy products, eggs, fish, dried fruit, garlic, legumes, nuts, sesame, sunflower, pumpkin seeds, meats, poultry, salmon,  and whole grains.

Side Effects of Phosphorus:

Consuming excessive amounts of phosphorus can interfere with calcium absorption. A diet high in processed cooked foods and junk food is usually the cause of excessive amounts of phosphorus.

The kidneys control the body’s phosphorus levels, excreting excess phosphorus out of your system. This makes phosphorus toxicity highly unlikely.