PHOSPHORUS

Phosphorus is the second most abundant element in the human body. It comprises 30% of the total mineral content. Most phosphorus in the body is stored in the bone and teeth in an inorganic metal state. The remaining 15% is distributed in soft tissues in both organic and inorganic forms. An adult human body contains approximately 600 g of phosphorus.

Why is Phosphorus essential to the human body?

Phosphorus has a crucial role in the formation of bones and teeth.
Phosphorus and calcium are interrelated. Vitamin D and the parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulate the metabolism of both these minerals. Additionally, phosphorus and calcium make up the main structural component of the bones and tooth enamel.

Constructive proteins require phosphorus for cellular growth, maintenance, and repair of damaged tissues.
Phosphorus also has a role in the following functions:

• Kidney function
• Muscle contractions
• Reduce muscle pain after exercise
• Rhythmic heart rate
• Transmission of nerve signals
• Maintaining normal pH of the blood

What are the signs and symptoms of Phosphorus deficiency?

Phosphorous deficiency is a rare condition. Most cases of hypophosphatemia (low phosphorus) are caused by medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, kidney tubule defects, and diabetic ketoacidosis. Excessive malnutrition, eating disorders, and high alcohol consumption may also contribute to phosphorus deficiency.

Common symptoms of phosphorus deficiency may present with

• Loss of appetite
• Anemia (low haemoglobin)
• Muscle weakness
• Bone pains
• Rickets (in children)
• Osteomalacia (in adults)
• Numbness and tingling in hands and legs
• Difficulty in walking
• Frequent fractures

What is the daily requirement of Phosphorus?

As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) of phosphorus is:

What are the food sources of Phosphorus?

Both animal and plant foods are important sources of phosphorus.
Food phosphorus is a mixture of both, organic and inorganic forms.

Animal Sources: Meat, fish, eggs, milk, and poultry.
Plant Sources: Whole grains, nuts, legumes, and vegetables

Phosphorus from animal sources has a higher absorption rate than from plant sources.

Can excess Phosphorus cause toxicity?

High levels of phosphorus are rarely observed, but when they do develop there are several complications. The most serious adverse effect of elevated blood levels of phosphate (hyperphosphatemia) is the calcification of non-skeletal tissues. This is most commonly seen in kidneys. It can lead to damage to the kidneys. Hyperphosphatemia from dietary causes is a problem mainly in patients with kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) or hypoparathyroidism.

Phosphate additives (like phosphoric acid, sodium phosphate, and sodium polyphosphate) are present in many foods. These are added to processed food products in order to preserve the moisture or colour and to enhance and stabilize frozen foods. Foods containing these additives have an average of 67 mg more phosphorus per serving than similar foods not containing these additives.