Phosphorus is an essential mineral found in a variety of foods. The most common form of phosphorus in your body is in the form of phosphates. While there is phosphorus in nearly every cell in your body, about 85 percent of the phosphorus is in your bones and teeth.
Function of Phosphorus
Phosphorus has many functions in the body. One function is to join with calcium to form a compound called hydroxyappetite. This is the compound that gives structure and rigidity to your bones and teeth. Another function of phosphorus is to generate phospholipids. Phospholipids are incorporated into cell membranes and provide structural support for cells. Phosphorus is also used for energy metabolism. Your body generates adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, when it metabolizes carbohydrates and fat for energy. ATP is used by your cells for energy storage and is also important for making new DNA.
Side Effects of Phosphorus
Phosphorus deficiencies are rare because it is found naturally in a variety of foods and is also used as a food additive in many packaged products. A deficiency is typically seen in cases of extreme starvation although alcoholics and patients recovering from diabetic ketoacidosis may also be at risk for low phosphorus. Hyperphosphatemia, or too much phosphate in the blood, is a concern, particularly for kidney disease patients. Your body filters your blood of excess phosphate in your kidneys. However, for patients with kidney failure, phosphate can build up in the blood. This can lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and calcification of soft tissue.
Recommended Intake
The Institute of Medicine recommends 700 mg of phosphorus per day for women and men ages 19 and older. The recommendation for pregnant and lactating women ages 19 and older is the same. End stage renal disease patients may need to follow a phosphorus-restricted diet. It is best to speak with your physician for more specific recommendations.
Food Sources
Phosphorus is found in a variety of foods, such as lean meat, fish, dairy products and eggs. Phosphorus is also found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts in a storage form called phytate. However, your body cannot break down phytate, so the phosphorus in these food sources is less bioavailable. The following list shows common food sources and the amount of phosphorus per serving. Eight ounces of plain yogurt has 385 mg phosphorus, 3 oz. of cooked salmon has 252 mg, 8 oz. of skim milk has 247 mg, one large egg has 104 mg, 1 oz. bag of plain potato chips has 44 mg and 12 oz. carbonated cola 40 mg.
Member Comments