Phosphorus health

Phosphorus is second only to calcium as the most abundant mineral in the body. It is usually combined with oxygen to make phosphate compounds and is a constituent of all plant and animal cells. The average adult contains around 500 g of phosphorus, around 85 per cent is in the bones and teeth, 14 per cent in the muscles and the rest in the fluid that surrounds the cells.

Benefits

Phosphate is the primary ion in extra and intracellular fluid. It aids absorption of dietary constituents, helps to maintain the blood at a slightly alkaline level, regulates enzyme activity and is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. Phosphorus is a component of some of the major building blocks in the body, including RNA and DNA and lipids, including those in the blood and cell membranes.

Bones and teeth

Phosphorus combined with calcium, usually in the form of hydroxyapatite, is a major component of the structural part of bones and teeth.

Energy production

Phosphorus takes part in almost every metabolic reaction in the body. It is necessary for the conversion of dietary carbohydrate, fat and protein to energy. It is part of the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecule which acts as a reservoir of energy in cells.

Calcium-phosphorus balance

Calcium and phosphorus act together and balance each other in many body functions. An excessive intake of one mineral may cause a deficiency in the other. The intake ratio of calcium to phosphorus should be 1:1.

Phosphorus
Phosphorus health
Phosphorus absorption
Phosphorus deficiency
Phosphorus sources
Phosphorus recommended daily
Phosphorus overdose
Phosphorus supplements
Phosphorus interactions

Other Minerals:

Boron
Calcium
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Electrolytes
Potassium
Sodium
Chloride
Fluoride
Iodine
Magnesium
Manganese
Molybdenum
Nickel
Phosphorus
Selenium
Silicon
Sulfur
Vanadium
Zinc