Among the inorganic elements, phosphorus is second only to calcium in abundance in the body.
Phosphorus is needed for blood clotting, bone and tooth formation, cell growth, contraction of the heart muscle, normal heart rhythm and kidney function.
It also assists the body in the utilization of vitamins and the conversion of food to energy.
Phosphorus is the true agent of life and growth in the human body, and is a basic element most necessary to emotion, intelligence and growth. This element is the great brain and bone builder and during the process of active thinking large qualities of phosphorus are consumed in the brain.
Approximately 560 to 850 g are present in a 70 kg human, representing about 0.8% to 1.2 % of body weight.
A proper balance of magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus should be maintained at all times.
If one of these minerals is present in either excessive or insufficient amounts, this will have adverse effects on the body.
The best sources are high protein foods such as a meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese and milk.
Deficiencies of phosphorus are rare, but can lead to such symptoms as anxiety, bone pain, fatigue, irregular breathing, irritability, numbness, skin sensitivity, trembling, weakness and weight changes.
The daily requirement is about 1 g. Phosphorus requirement is similar to calcium.
Phosphorus in human nutrition
