Phosphorus

Is an essential mineral that makes up 1% of a person’s total body weight and is found in the bones and teeth. It plays an important role in the body’s utilization of carbohydrates and fats; in the synthesis of protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues. It is also crucial for the production of ATP, a molecule the body uses to store energy. Main sources are meat and milk; fruits and vegetables provides small amounts.

A non-metallic element that is found in the blood, muscles, nevers, bones, and teeth, and is a component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP; the primary energy source for the body’s cells.)

Optional on nutrition label unless added as a nutrient supplement. Phosphorus is a mineral and helps build strong bones and teeth; releases energy from fat, protein and carbohydrates; and assists in the formation of genetic materials, cell membranes and many enzymes.

A mineral element that is essential in the formation of blood, muscles, and nerves.

A toxic chemical element which is present in very small quantities in bones and nerve tissue. It causes burns if it touches the skin, and can poison if swallowed.

An essential mineral found in every cell. It helps to balance calcium and is involved in the production of energy and the transference of nerve impulses. Phosphorus is found in most protein-rich foods including milk, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, garlic, legumes and whole grains.

An essential mineral component of bone tissue, where it occurs in the mass ratio of 1 phosphorus to 2 calcium, and also an essential ingredient of intermediary metabolism and membranes. Phosphorus is present in nearly all foods. In a number of species, excess phosphorus, that is, a calcium-phosphorus ratio of 0.5, leads to a decrease in the blood calcium level and secondary hyperparathyroidism with loss of bone. The phosphorus levels in normal diets are not likely to be harmful.

Phosphorus is a macromineral that serves many critical functions in the body. Dietary phosphorus can be provided by a wide range of foods including meat, fish, poultry, dairy foods, eggs, legumes, grains, and nuts. Many of the functions that phosphorus serves are related to its roles in the structural properties of important compounds. Much of the crystalline structure of bone includes phosphorus. It is also an important structural component of cell membranes, which require phosphorus for the production of phospholipids. Phosphate molecules also produce the high-energy bonds of chemicals such as adenosine triphosphate, creatine phosphate, and others. Coenzyme forms of many vitamins (such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6) also require phosphate.

A mineral that works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth and helps in the body’s metabolism. Some significant sources of phosphorus are milk, cheese, meats, egg yolks, fish, poultry, whole-grain products, beans, and nuts. Lack of sufficient phosphorus can cause weakness, bone pain, and abnormal growth. Too much phosphorus can hinder the body’s use of calcium. More than that, phosphorus as an element used in pesticides and industrial materials can be a dangerous poison, with chronic exposure causing anemia, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney and urological disorders. Acute phosphorus poisoning can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhea, failure of the heart, kidneys, or liver, delirium, seizures, and death.

Non-metallic element essential in the body for calcium, protein, and glucose metabolism and for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

A mineral essential to normal body functioning. Abnormal urine levels may indicate kidney, liver, bone, and other diseases. Normal values: in urine after 24-hr collection, 0.9-1.3 g (may vary with intake).

An essential mineral present in every cell of the body. Phosphorus is found mainly in bones and teeth and has a role in the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats, the synthesis of protein, muscle contraction, kidney function, nerve conduction, and heartbeat regulation. Dietary phosphorus is found in protein, principally in meat and dairy products. If a person’s diet is adequate in calcium and protein, it is likely to be adequate in phosphorus.

A nonmetallic element. Phosphorus compunds are major constituents in the tissues of both plants and animals. In man, phosphorus is mostly concentrated in bone. However, certain phosphorus-containing compounds, e.g. adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate, play an important part in energy conversions and storage in the body. In a pure state, phosphorus is toxic.

A non-metallic element whose compounds are widely found in plant and animal tissues. In humans, this element is largely concentrated in bone. Some phosphorus-containing compounds such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate are essential participants in the conversion and storage of energy that are part of the body’s metabolism. Pure phosphorus is toxic.

A nonmetallic element not found in a free state but in combination with oxygen and cations such as calcium, sodium, and potassium; atomic weight 30.9738; atomic number 15. The normal serum value of phosphorus is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dl. Normally, plasma concentrations of phosphorus and calcium have a reciprocal relationship: as one increases, the other decreases.

An indispensable mineral, pivotal for a multitude of vital functions within the body, holds a place of utmost importance. This remarkable mineral stands as a fundamental building block for the composition of bones and teeth, while simultaneously playing a crucial role in the intricate web of life and structure that defines every cell within the body. In the realm of nourishment, a well-rounded and balanced diet typically ensures an ample supply of this mineral, leaving little room for deficiencies. Its presence can be found nestled within a diverse array of foods, affirming its widespread occurrence and accessibility.