Phosphate is an inorganic molecule required by several biological processes necessary for life. A wide range of foods contains phosphate, and deficiencies in phosphate are rarely caused solely by a lack of dietary intake. Most cases of phosphate deficiency results from alcoholism, severe starvation, liver disease or other metabolic disorders. When a phosphate deficiency does occur, which is also known as hypophosphatemia, it can cause serious symptoms requiring medical attention. If you suspect you have a phosphate deficiency, consult your doctor.
Skeletal Effects
Most of the phosphate present in your body is found in your bones, and phosphate plays a key role in regulating calcium levels and bone formation. Low levels of phosphate in the body causes calcium to leave the bones and enter the bloodstream. Without calcium, the bones become softer and weaker, a condition called osteomalacia and the risk of fractures is increased. Hypophosphatemia can also lead to symptoms similar to arthritis, including joint stiffness and pain.
Effects on Blood Cells
Most blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, require phosphate in order to function correctly. Phosphate is also required to maintain the membranes of blood cells. Without phosphate, the membranes of blood cells become very brittle and rupture easily, leading to low levels of all types of blood cells. Low levels of red blood cells cause a condition known as anemia. Decreased levels of white blood cells decrease ability of the body to fight infections. Low numbers of platelets decrease the ability of blood to clot and prevent bleeding.
Musclucar Effects
Phosphate is a key component of a molecule called adenosine tri-phosphate, or ATP, which is a key source of energy for all the biochemical reactions that take place in cells, including muscle contraction. When the body is low on phosphate, it cannot make enough ATP for cells to use as energy. Without ATP as an energy source, numerous symptoms develop, including muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass, loss of coordination and paralysis. Hypophosphatemia can also damage the heart muscles, which can be detected by abnormal reading on a electrocardiogram, or EKG.
Neurological Effects
Adenosine triphosphate is also required for proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. As a result, hypophosphatemia can cause several symptoms affecting the nervous system, including tremors, uncontrollable jerking body movements, loss of reflexes, abnormal pupil dilations and convulsions. In severe cases, hypophosphatemia can result in coma.
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