Everyone knows that the body requires calcium in order to maintain strong bones and teeth. But calcium has other functions within the body as well. Phosphorus interacts with calcium to produce bone cells. Together, these two minerals play a major role in the maintenance of overall health.
Obtaining Calcium
Maintaining body stores of calcium depends on dietary intake, absorption from the GI tract and the excretion of calcium through the kidneys. Eating a balanced diet will provide approximately 1,000 mg of calcium per day, according to the Merck Manual Online Library. Bile excretion into the GI tract and other GI secretions provide another 200 mg per day. Depending on the amount of active vitamin D that is circulating, approximately 200 to 400 mg of calcium is absorbed every day. The rest appears in stool. Approximately 99 percent of body calcium is stored in bones.
Obtaining Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a critical component of all living things and is found in most food products. Dairy products, meat and fish are high in phosphorus content. The Linus Pauling Institute notes that the daily recommended allowance for phosphorus in adults is 700 mg per day. Because phosphorus is so highly prevalent in food products, deficiency is uncommon.
Calcium and Phosphorus
According to the Merck Manual Online Library, the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus is closely related. Regulation of both minerals is influenced by levels of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone, which is secreted from the parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid. The two minerals will chemically react to form calcium phosphate, otherwise known as hydroxyapatite. This is the structural component of bones.
Other Uses
Phosphorus is a major component of cell membranes, and energy storage and production are dependent upon phosphorus to catalyze energy. Phosphorus also helps maintain the body's pH and can bind to red blood cells to help carry oxygen. Calcium is critical to muscle contractions and is a major player in maintaining the heart's rhythm. Lack of calcium can cause seizures and heart failure. Excessive calcium can cause weakness, confusion and coma.
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