Phosphorus

Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body. The majority of it is found as calcium phosphate. As phosphoric acid, it is fundamental to the growth, maintenance, and repair of all body tissues. In sum, its roles are many and its importance vital. Its close working relation with calcium means fluctuations in one mineral will be reflected by subsequent fluctuations in the other. The kidneys are in charge of maintaining a stable calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Phosphorus levels are regulated primarily by urinary excretion.

An animal study published in 1983 explored the effect of high dietary protein and phosphorus on bone status in animals. The study found that high dietary phosphorus intake reduces bone density because of increased calcium loss from the bone. High dietary protein did not seem to as much damage. An imbalance between phosphorus and calcium can result in increased calcium loss, which leads to bone loss and osteoporosis.¹

A cancer study conducted in Sweden and published in 1992 presented a strong argument for improving overall dietary habits in regards to phosphorus. Researchers found an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer associated with a diet low in phosphorus and other dietary factors including fiber, Vitamin B-2, and calcium. In contrast, the cancer-free patients with a high intake of these nutrients had a reduced cancer risk.²

1 Yuen D, Draper H. Long-term effects of excess protein and phosphorus on bone homeostasis in adult mice. J Nutr 1983;113:1374.

2 Arbman G, Axelson O, Ericsson-Begodzki A, et al: Cereal fiber, calcium, and colorectal cancer. Cancer 1992;69:2042-2048.

• Almonds
• Brazil nuts
• Convenience foods in the form of phosphoric acid
• Eggs
• Fish
• In very small amounts in various fruits
• Kelp
• Meats
• Milk
• Milk products
• Molasses
• Poultry
• Shrimp
• Soft drinks
• Soybeans
• Tofu
• Yogurt¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

PROVEN BENEFITS:

• Fundamental to the growth, maintenance, and repair of all body tissues.
• Necessary for protein synthesis.
• Critical for energy transfer and production.
• Plays a role in the phosphorylation of monosaccharides for energy
• necessary for oxidation of carbohydrates, protein and fats leading to the formation of ATP.

What this mineral does:

• Phosphorous is a structural component of all cells. It is part of the nucleic acids comprising the genetic code in all cells.
• Activates many enzymes, B vitamins, and ATP.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS:

• May prevent colorectal cancer.
• Helps hypertension.
• Treats leg cramps.
• Treats diabetes.
• Treats allergies.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

• Those taking the hormone calcitonin.
• Those deficient in Vitamin D may have lowered phosphorous levels too.

Miscellaneous information:

1. About 85% of all phosphorous is found in calcium phosphate in a two-to-one ratio in the bones and teeth.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

• Decreased appetite
• Nervous system deterioration
• Demineralization of bones and teeth
• Cold hands and feet
• Numbness
• Night sweats
• Continuous diarrhea
• Constipation
• Cramps
• Shooting pains Low fevers
• Colic
• Depression
• Sore breasts
• Faint/rapid pulse¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

UNPROVED SPECULATED SYMPTOMS

• Rickets¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

LAB TESTS TO DETECT DEFICIENCY

• None known at this time.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

Optimal Levels

• 300-600 mg.

Minimum Dosage

The RDA for phosphorous has been set close to that of calcium because of the similarity of the two minerals.

Increased amounts are dangerous.

See OVERDOSE/TOXICITY

Storage:

Store in cool, dry area away from direct light, but don't freeze.

Store safely out of reach of children.

Don't store in bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and moisture may change action of mineral.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

OVERDOSE/TOXICITY

Signs and symptoms:

• Confusion
• High blood pressure
• Increased sensitivity of eyes and skin to light
• Increased thirst
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Depression
• Bone or muscle pain Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin itching
• Skin rash
• Increased urination
• Phosphorous decreased
• Phosphorous decreased in urine
• Kidney failure
• Increased calcium in blood

What to do:

• For symptoms of overdosage: Discontinue mineral, and consult doctor immediately. Also see Adverse Reactions Or Side Effects.
• For accidental overdosage (such as child taking entire bottle): Call emergency services, the telephone operator or your nearest Poison Control Center.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

ADVERSE REACTIONS OR SIDE EFFECTS

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INTERACTION WITH OTHER SUBSTANCES

• Aluminum is an inhibitor.
• Aided in its work by Vitamins A and D, boron, calcium, iron, manganese, protein.
• Absorption may be inhibited by excessive iron intake.
• Works closely with calcium; fluctuations in one mineral will be reflected by subsequent fluctuations in the other.
• The hormone calcitonin causes rapid lowering of phosphorous.¹

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements

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