Phosphates are chemical compounds that are found in the human body and throughout the natural world. The element phosphorous, a key component of phosphates, is essential to human, plant and animal life. Next to calcium, phosphorous is the most abundant mineral compound that is found in the human body. In addition to being critical components of our bones and teeth, phosphates also aid in maintenance of tissues and cells, play a role in the body's storage and usage of energy, and also help make up the genetic materials that comprise our DNA.
Building Bones and Teeth
Phosphorous and calcium form a mineral called hydroxyapatite, a critical component of human bones and teeth. This particular mineral helps gives bones their proper strength and rigidity. Approximately 85 percent of the body's phosphorous can be found within the bones, and the proper consumption of phosphorous can help in the prevention of osteoporosis. As such, maintaining an adequate daily intake of phosphorous is important to ensure the continued health of your skeletal system.
Cellular Activities
Phosphorous is found in plasma and the fluids between cells within your body. It helps balance the body's calcium levels and acts as a buffering agent to control your internal acid-base equilibrium. It is also an important component of cellular membranes, and any variations in its content or concentrations within the body can impact certain metabolic functions, such as energy production and cellular division. Additionally, inorganic phosphate groups help make up the molecule adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. When this molecule combines with water within the cells, the phosphate group is cleaved, releasing the energy that helps powers the body's critical cellular processes.
DNA
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the genetic building-block of humans and all other forms of life on the planet. All DNA, which is found in the nucleus of an organism's cells, is made up of a sugar compound, a nitrogenous compound, and a phosphate. The phosphates present in the DNA structure help to bond the sugars together, and it also serves as a backbone for the DNA strand.
Symptoms of Phosphate/Phosphorous Imbalance
While most people take in plenty of phosphorous through their diets, inadequate levels of phosphorous can lead to a variety of health-related issues. Some of these maladies may include anxiety, fragile bones, fatigue, joint stiffness, loss of appetite and fluctuations in weight. Conversely, elevated levels of phosphorous in the body, which can be detected via routing blood sampling, may be an indicator of a more serious underlying issue, such as kidney disease. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you may be suffering from any form of renal ailment.
