Phosphorus and Your Diet (2024)

FAQs

What does phosphorus do in your diet? ›

Many proteins and sugars in the body are phosphorylated. In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage. In humans, phosphorus makes up about 1% to 1.4% of fat-free mass.

A phosphorus deficiency can cause loss of appetite, anemia (low red blood cell counts), muscle weakness, coordination problems, bone pain, soft and deformed bones, a higher risk of infection, a feeling of burning or prickling in the skin, and confusion.

The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. It plays an important role in how the body uses carbohydrates and fats. It is also needed for the body to make protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues.

The UL for phosphorus for adult men and women ages 19-70 years old is 4,000 mg daily, and for older adults 71+ years, 3,000 mg daily. The UL for pregnant and lactating women ages 14-50 years is 3,500 and 4,000 mg, respectively.

But if your phosphate levels are too high, it can remove calcium from your bones, which makes them brittle. It can also cause calcium deposits in your eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels, which increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and death over time.

Sodas. According to the American Kidney Fund, a recent study suggests that drinking two or more carbonated sodas, diet or regular, each day may increase your risk for chronic kidney disease. Carbonated and energy drinks have both been linked to the formation of kidney stones.

Because most of the phosphorus is contained in the yolk (586 mg/100 g), the phosphorus-to-protein ratio content of a whole egg is 13.4 mg/g compared to a more desirable ratio of 1.4 mg/g for an egg white [83].

Some health conditions, such as diabetes, starvation, and alcoholism can cause levels of phosphorus in the body to fall. The same is true of conditions that make it hard for people to absorb nutrients, such as Crohn disease and celiac disease.

A phosphorus deficiency is uncommon. It happens when the body has low levels of this vital mineral. Poor diets or eating disorders may contribute to a deficiency. Other medical conditions or situations that cause levels to fall include diabetes, inherited disorders, and alcoholism.

What are 3 interesting facts about phosphorus? ›

Phosphorus is a mineral found in every cell of the body, usually in the form of phosphate. It is the second most abundant mineral in the body after calcium. About 85% of phosphorus is stored in the bones and teeth. It is important for forming bones and teeth, as well as repairing bones.

For example, there are many low-phosphorus beverages: coffee, tea, green tea, and flavored water. If you drink sodas, diet versions of Sprite®, 7UP®, ginger ale, orange soda, and root beer are phosphorus-free choices. Colas such as Diet co*ke® and Diet Pepsi® contain added phosphorus.

Extra phosphorus causes body changes that pull calcium out of your bones, making them weak. High phosphorus and calcium levels also lead to dangerous calcium deposits in blood vessels, lungs, eyes, and heart. Over time this can lead to increased risk of heart attack, stroke or death.

Fish: Phosphorus is found in fatty fish and shellfish, such as salmon, tuna, clams, and mollusks. Dairy products: Dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, have a more balanced calcium-phosphorus ratio and are, thus, high in phosphorus.

We find the mineral potassium in plant foods (also milk/dairy). It helps with muscle and nerve function, and alsohelps with blood pressure. Phosphorus is found in protein foods (meat, fish, beans, lentils, nuts). It is a key player in energy production in the body, as well as for bone health.

Healthy kidneys remove extra phosphorus from the blood. If your kidneys don't work well, you can develop a high phosphorus level in your blood, putting you at greater risk of heart disease, weak bones, joint pain and even death.

Limit the phosphorus-rich foods like dried beans, black-eyed peas and organ meats, such as chitterlings/chitlins. Use nondairy creamers and milk substitutes in place of milk in cereals, coffee, and many sauces. Serving size is very important because most foods have phosphorus.