Calcium phosphate is a family of ions that contain not only calcium ions, but also orthophosphates, hydrogen or hydroxide, and pyrophosphates. Your body requires calcium phosphate for the formation of your bones and tooth enamel. However, calcium phosphate also has nonmedical applications, including uses in cooking and fertilization.
Definitions
Calcium phosphate is a type of calcium rock and has the chemical formula Ca3(PO4)2. Calcium phosphate forms when free calcium interacts with phosphate. In your body, this interaction can occur when both minerals excrete through your urinary tract. This interaction can also lead to the buildup of calculi, or renal stones, in your body.
Foods and Supplements
Milk naturally holds calcium phosphate. The consumption of milk can, therefore, help support healthy teeth and bones. Additionally, you can take calcium phosphate in supplement form. However, you should speak with a medical professional prior to taking a calcium phosphate supplement. Foods such as breads, cereals and drink mixes also commonly contain calcium phosphate. Manufacturers also frequently fortify packaged foods and drinks with calcium phosphate.
Baking, Diluting and Fertilizing
Calcium phosphate can also function as a baking agent, causing breads and other items to rise. Moreover, manufacturers sometimes add calcium phosphate to some cheeses and dairy products to increase the calcium content and nutritional value of the food product. Furthermore, manufacturers also use calcium phosphate as a diluting agent in some medications. Calcium phosphate offers a harmless method for manufactures to dilute the strength of the medications and other chemical compounds without using more synthetic substances. Additionally, manufacturers use calcium phosphate in the production of fertilizers.
Demineralizing and Dissolving
Dental offices also use calcium phosphate for teeth demineralization. Additionally, dentists use calcium phosphate to rebuild and strengthen tooth enamel and prevent future damage to your tooth enamel. Calcium phosphate will dissolve in mild acids such as table vinegar. Your body also can typically absorb and dissolve calcium phosphate. However, at times, deposits of calcium phosphate can build up in your kidneys, causing intense pain, vomiting and blood in your urine. If you experience any of these symptoms of calcium phosphate deposits in your kidneys, you should immediately seek medical attention.
References
- "Calcium Phosphates in Biological and Industrial Systems"; Zahid Amjad; 1997
- "Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism Management in Chronic Renal Disease"; Chen Hsu; 2010
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