Phosphorus in the body: properties, deficiency, products, how to reduce

The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones. Calcium is mainly responsible for their condition, but not only. Phosphorus is equally important - around 85% of the deposits of this element are found precisely in the bones and teeth. Although its deficiency is rare, it is worth learning about the properties and sources of phosphorus in the diet in order to maintain the necessary balance in the body.

That is why, together with clinical nutritionist, Aleksandra Cudna-Bartnicka we have prepared the most important information about phosphorus.

See also:

.

• Best magnesium - ranking
.
• Iron - action
• Potassium in the body
• Magnesium - properties
.
• Sodium in the body - what it is
.
• Electrolytes - what are they?
.

What is phosphorus?

.

Phosphorus is a key element found in the human body. It is the second most abundant mineral in the human body - after calcium. It is found primarily in bones and teeth, being an essential component of themand.

Phosphorus is essential for the proper functioning of the body - it is involved in the formation and maintenance of healthy bones, is important for metabolic processes (including the production of ATP, the main energy carrier in cells), and is an indispensable component of the synthesis of proteins and various enzymesand.

.

Phosphorus is also important for the nervous system as it is used to produce phospholipids, which are an essential component of cell membranes and play an important role in signal transmission in neurons.

White, red and black phosphorus - what are the differences?

.

White, red and black phosphorus are different forms of this element that differ in structure as well as physical and chemical properties. Each is unique and plays its roles in different applications and environmentsand.

• White phosphorus. A very reactive type of phosphorus that spontaneously ignites in air, making it very dangerous. Because of its properties, it is used in the manufacture of matches or pesticides.
• Red phosphorus. It is a more stable type of phosphorus. It is used, for example, in the production of photovoltaic cells.
• Black phosphorus. This in turn is the most stable form of phosphorus, which has a layered structure similar to graphite. Black phosphorus is widely used mainly in electronics as a semiconductor.

What symbol does phosphorus have?

.

Phosphorus has the chemical symbol 'P' in the periodic table of elements. Discovered in 1669 by the German alchemist Hennig Brand, it is the 15th element on the periodic tableand.

Phosphorus - uses

.

Phosphorus is an element with a wide range of applications - from agriculture to industry to the specialist sphere. Where specifically is this compound used 

.

• Agriculture. Phosphorus is an important component of fertilisers, involved in the metabolic processes of plants. Without it, it would be difficult for them to use solar energy effectively for photosynthesis.
• The technology industry. Phosphorus is used in the production of silicon chips and other microcomponents of electronics. Due to its unique properties, it allows for the miniaturisation of devices.
• The pyrotechnics and defence industry. Phosphorus is also not uncommonly found in the composition of explosive mixtures and smoke agents.
• Fibre optics and speciality materials. Phosphorus is also used to produce materials with unique properties, for example fibre optics, which transmit light signals over long distances.

Phosphorus - properties and effects in the body

.

Phosphorus is one of the most important minerals in the human body. This element strengthens bones and teeth, facilitates digestion and supports the regulation of protein and enzyme production.

What roles does phosphorus play in the body?

.

Strengthens bones and teeth

.

Phosphorus has important functions in maintaining bone and tooth health. This nutrient works with calcium to produce hydroxyapatite - a hard, crystallised structure that is the main building block of bones and teeth. Without adequate phosphorus levels in the body, bones can become weak and teeth susceptible to decayand.

Phosphorus also supports the regeneration and maintenance of a strong bone structure. Together with calcium, they enable the mineralisation and renewal of bone tissue, essential processes to prevent diseases such as osteoporosis .

Aids digestion

.

Phosphorus also plays a significant role in digestion and metabolism. As one of the main 'helpers' of compounds such as phospholipids, it is involved in the proper utilisation of absorbed nutrients. Without proper phosphorus levels, the body may not be able to fully utilise the nutrients provided from foodand.

Phosphorus is also essential for cellular metabolism. It is the main component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the compound responsible for storing and transporting the energy needed by all cells to perform their functionsand.

.

In addition, phosphorus's involvement in biochemical metabolism helps to improve the bioavailability of vitamins and nutrients and improves the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. This allows the body to efficiently utilise essential nutrients important for optimal functionand.

Regulation of protein and enzyme production

.

Phosphorus is involved in regulating the production of proteins and enzymes, which are essential for the body to function properly. The production of new proteins requires phosphorus, which co-forms protein structures. Without adequate phosphorus levels in the body, the formation of new cells and the repair of existing cells could be hinderedand.

Phosphorus is also essential for the production and regulation of enzymes. It is a component of many coenzymes and is involved in numerous reactions, activating or deactivating key enzymes .

Protein and enzyme production processes affect almost every bodily function. From cell growth and repair, to regulating the immune response, to developing and maintaining a healthy nervous system .

Participates in the production of DNA and RNA

.

Phosphorus is a component of DNA and RNA, which are key molecules responsible for storing and reading genetic information in cells. Without this mineral, the formation of new cells or the transfer of genetic information to produce new tissues would not be possibleand.

In DNA and RNA, phosphorus is an integral part of the 'backbone' of these molecules, forming the so-called phosphate residue in their structure. It links individual sugars together to form the stable structure of double-stranded DNA or single-stranded RNAand.

Phosphorus is also involved in the process of copying DNA, known as replication, and the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA in the process of transcription. Without adequate levels of phosphorus, these processes would be hindered, which could lead to errors in the transmission of genetic information and dysfunction in cells and even entire organsand.

How else does phosphorus work in the bodyand?

.

• Helps to maintain proper pH levels by neutralising excess acids or bases.
• Plays a key role in various biochemical processes necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system, including the transmission of nerve impulses.
• Plays a key role in various biochemical processes necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system, including the transmission of nerve impulses.
• Helps the kidneys properly eliminate toxins and waste, which is essential for overall health.
.

What is the daily requirement for phosphorus?

.

Daily phosphorus requirements depend on age. What portions of phosphorus should be taken according to the dietary standards for the Polish population?"

Products rich in phosphorus - table

.

Phosphorus can be found in numerous foods. However, some articles are particularly abundant in this ingredient. What is phosphorus in?

.

Poultry liver

441 mg

.

Phosphorus deficiency

.

Phosphorus deficiency is a rare condition - most people provide their bodies with adequate portions of this nutrient with their diet. However, if deficiencies do occur, it is not uncommon for them to be the result of other health problems, such as absorption disorders or kidney problems.

What are the causes of phosphorus deficiency in the bodyand?

• Disorders of absorption. Abnormal bowel function can result in problems with nutrient absorption, which will eventually lead to phosphorus deficiency. It is not uncommon for this to result from medical conditions such as coeliac disease or Crohn's disease.
.
• Improper eating habits. Diet has a significant impact on the levels of minerals in the body, so if it does not provide enough phosphorus, a phosphorus deficiency can occur.
• Medications. Some medications can affect phosphorus levels in the body. In particular, we are talking about drugs that regulate kidney function and anticonvulsant preparations, which can lead to an increased loss of phosphorus.
• Deficiency.
• Excessive loss of phosphorus in the urine. For example, in the course of hyperparathyroidism, increased phosphorus excretion is observed.

What are the symptoms of phosphorus deficiency?

.

Phosphorus deficiency in the body can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the length of time the state of insufficient supply of this nutrient persists.

The first symptoms are usually quite vague and inconspicuous - such as weakness or fatigue. As the deficiency progresses, the symptoms can worsen and affect a number of different systems in the body.

Symptoms of weakness and fatigue are usually quite vague.

Weakness

.

Weakness and fatigue are often some of the first symptoms of phosphorus deficiency. This nutrient is essential for the production of ATP, the body's main energy carrier. When its levels are too low, ATP production can be disrupted, which will lead to general fatigue and weaknessand.

Greater bone and tooth health

.

Phosphorus is important for the proper development of bones and teeth. Its deficiency can therefore cause softening and deformation of the bones, which is known as osteomalacia. Furthermore, in children, phosphorus deficiency can also cause delayed developmentand.

Nerve disorders

.

Long-term and severe phosphorus deficiency can lead to serious neurological complications such as numbness, sensory disturbances and even stroke. Phosphorus is involved in a number of biochemical processes crucial to the proper functioning of the nervous systemand.

Appetite and nutritional problems

.

Phosphorus deficiency can result in loss of appetite, nausea and even diarrhoea and weight loss. This is all the result of a disrupted digestive system and metabolismand.

Psychiatric disorders

.

In extreme cases, severe phosphorus deficiency can result in mental disorders, including concentration problems, confusion and even vulnerability to anxiety or depression. Phosphorus is essential for proper brain function, hence a lack of this nutrient can adversely affect mental healthand.

Problems with circulation

.

Phosphorus deficiency can affect heart rhythm and contractions, sometimes leading to serious circulatory problems. Symptoms such as irregular heartbeat and elevated body temperature often occur during sustained phosphorus deficiency over a long period of timeand.

Phosphorus - excess

.

Excess phosphorus, usually referred to as hyperphosphatemia, is often the result of problems with the kidneys, which are unable to excrete excessive amounts of this nutrient from the body. It is not uncommon for this condition to occur with kidney conditions such as chronic or acute renal failureand.

Taking excessive amounts of phosphorus (e.g. with supplements), especially when there is a concomitant dietary calcium deficiency or impaired renal function, can also lead to hyperphosphatemia.

Other causes of excess phosphorus are untreated diabetes mellitus, hyperparathyroidism or calcium deficiency.

Symptoms of excess phosphorus in the bodyand:

• Fatigue. Excess phosphorus can cause feelings of fatigue and weakness, which is due to stress on the nervous system and muscular system.
• Stomach pains.Phosphorus is mainly metabolised by the kidneys, so excess phosphorus can lead to urinary symptoms such as abdominal pain in the lumbar region.

• Dermal redness and itching. Excess phosphorus in the body can cause skin itching, redness and burning, which is a result of changes in the skin.

.

• Weakening of muscles and bones. Phosphorus is a key building block for muscles and bones. When there is too much of it, there can be excessive activity of osteoblasts - the cells responsible for creating new bone tissue - which paradoxically leads to a weakening of bone structure.
• Psychiatric disorders. In extreme cases, hyperphosphatemia can result in psychiatric disorders such as concentration problems, forgetfulness or emotional problems.

.

How to lower phosphorus in the body?

.

Reducing phosphorus levels in the body involves, first of all, changes in diet and lifestyle. As a first step, it is advisable to reduce the intake of phosphorus-rich foods such as red meat, whole grains, nuts, beans, milk and dairyand.

For balance, it is a good idea to consume foods low in phosphorus, such as fruit and vegetables. Processed foods and fast food, which are often high in phosphorus, should also be avoided.

Some medications (e.g. Sevemed) can also help to reduce phosphorus in the body. However, these remedies need to be prescribed by a doctor - they work by binding phosphorus in foods, which reduces its absorption into the bodyand.

These remedies can help reduce phosphorus in the body.

In extreme cases, dialysis may be required to remove phosphate from the blood.

.

Additionally, regular physical activity can help maintain normal phosphorus levels by improving overall health and kidney function.

Do you need to supplement phosphorus?

.

Phosphorus is an essential component that occurs naturally in many foods such as meat, milk, nuts and legumes. Most people get enough phosphorus through their daily diet, so supplementation of this nutrient is usually not necessary. In some cases, however, it may be recommended.

Who should consider phosphorus supplementation?

.

Phosphorus supplementation should be considered by people who may be deficient in this nutrient due to specific health conditions, diseases or dietary restrictions. Remember, however, that you should always consult your doctor before starting supplementation. Especially if you are suffering from any ailments or are already taking other remedies.

In what form are phosphorus supplements available?

.

Phosphorus supplements are available in various forms. Depending on your preference and needs, you can choose from tablets, drops, powders and liquids.

• Tablets. The most common form of phosphorus supplements. They are easy to supplement and dose, while offering precise amounts of the active ingredient so that dosage can be accurately tailored to individual needs.
• Tablets.
• Drops. Phosphorus supplements in drop form are easy to take, especially for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets. The drops can be added to water or any other liquid substance, making them even easier to supplement.

.

• Powder. Phosphorus in powder form is easy to mix with food or drink. It allows the dosage to be adjusted and avoids the swallowing problems that some people have when taking tablets.
• Liquid. Liquid phosphorus supplements can also be easily combined with drinks. This form of supplement is particularly recommended for people who may have difficulty swallowing tablets or for children who prefer the more pleasant taste of liquid supplements.

See also:

• Vitamin B12 - properties
• Vitamin D3 - effects
.
• Vitamin A - functions in the body
.
• Vitamin B1 - properties
.
• Vitamin E - effects
.
• Pantothenic acid - what it is
.
• Folic acid (vitamin B9) - properties
.
• Vitamin B3 - effects
• Vitamin K - where it occurs
• Vitamin B6 - what it is
.
• Vitamin C - properties
.

Summary

.

.