It is used in fireworks, pesticides and nerve agents, but phosphorous is also the backbone for all living cells. Phosphorous is a chemical element that is an essential component of DNA and RNA. It helps muscles, like the heart, contract regularly and keeps the mind alert. On average, a healthy adult consumes about one to three grams of the element each day in the form of phosphates. Those who are malnourished or unable to properly absorb phosphate can suffer from an electrolyte disturbance with symptoms such as muscular or neurological dysfunction and a breakdown of muscle and blood cells. The food and nutrition board recommends healthy adults take at least 700 milligrams and children under 18 years of age take about 1250 milligrams of phosphorus daily.
Phosphorus deficiency is rare in people as the element is usually found in multivitamins and most foods. Phosphates are the drug form of phosphorous and supplements are available to patients both by prescription and over-the-counter. Some athletes take sodium phosphate supplements before exercising in order to diminish muscle pain because it decreases build-ups of lactic acid.
What to Look for
It is important to maintain a balanced diet and get your vitamins and minerals from food, but if you don't think you are getting enough phosphorus, talk to your doctor. Foods high in phosphorous include dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, nuts, legumes and grains. If your doctor recommends phosphate supplements, some brands include Fleet Phospho-soda, EZ-Prep, K-Phos Original, OsmoPrep, Phospho-Soda and Visicol.
Phosphate supplements are approved to treat constipation, hypercalcemia (high blood calcium), hypophosphatemia (low blood phosphorus levels), kidney stones (if the stone are not composed of a phosphate compound) and used as a laxative before certain procedures like endoscopy or surgery, according to the National Institute of Health.
Common Pitfalls
Phosphates become toxic at levels over one gram per day. But, since healthy kidneys are well adept at controlling and excreting excess phosphates, having a build up of it is rare. Nonetheless, some signs of toxicity include diarrhea, tremors, anxiety, nausea and vomiting, as well as more serious conditions such as hardening of the organs and soft tissue. Too much of the element can also hinder the body's usage of iron magnesium, zinc and calcium.
It's important to balance the levels of phosphorus with calcium in the body. Too much phosphorous can draw out calcium that is stored in bones, reducing a bone's mass and making it brittle. It could also lead to tooth and gum problems.
Member Comments