Minerals Guide – PHOSPHORUS
Phosphorus-rich Foods
The phosphorus recommended daily allowance is 700 mg daily. Phosphorus is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth and supporting various bodily functions. If you're looking to increase your phosphorus intake, this guide will provide you with a list of the top 12 phosphorus-rich foods, along with their nutritional benefits and potential risks.
What is Phosphorus And Why Is It Important?
Phosphorus is a mineral essential for the growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues and cells in the body. It is particularly important for the health of bones and teeth, as it helps to form the mineral matrix that gives them strength and structure. Phosphorus also plays a key role in energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, and the regulation of acid-base balance in the body. While phosphorus is found in many foods, some people may need to increase their intake to maintain optimal health.
NPK Fertilizer
Phosphorus is one of the NPK minerals that farmers plow onto their soils via NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizer. It’s an essential mineral of which 90 percent of the body’s store is in the bones and teeth as a structural salt called calcium phosphate. This salt is also called hydroxyapatite. We get the mineral from phosphorus-rich foods thanks to the NPK fertilizer. The remaining 10 percent of phosphorus in our bodies is in:
Phosphorus-Rich Foods
Phosphorus RDA
The phosphorus recommended daily allowance is 700 mg daily. But few people are at risk of phosphorus deficiency, and single supplements are rarely needed. However, phosphorus is so vital that farmers purposely plow the mineral into their soils with nitrogen and potassium. So, the mineral is obtained from many food sources:
Vitamin D and Phosphorus
Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of phosphorus from the gut and its deposition, with calcium, into our bones. So really, people who don’t get much sunlight and don’t supplement with vitamin D to boost their vitamin D levels are playing Russian roulette with their health. Although they eat phosphorus-rich foods, phosphorus absorption is impaired due to the lack of vitamin D.
Phosphate Deficiency
Phosphate deficiency is actually quite rare because the mineral is widely found in the diet thanks to NPK fertilizer. However, the cereal fortification with phosphorus is questionable activity. Many cereals have phosphorus additives, so anyone with kidney disease should avoid them. [1] Phosphorus deficiency symptoms are:
Phosphorus-Rich Foods in the Diet
According to the nephrology website [2], the top twelve phosphorus-rich foods are:
How to Incorporate these Phosphorus–Rich Foods Into Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate phosphorus-rich foods into your diet. For example, you can add nuts and seeds to your breakfast cereal or yogurt or use them as a topping for salads or stir-fries. You can also include beans and lentils in soups, stews, and casseroles or use them as a meat substitute in tacos or burritos. Additionally, you can enjoy fish and seafood as a main dish or use them in sushi rolls or seafood salads. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can help maintain healthy bones and teeth and support overall health and well-being.
TRC Test Result
The TRC test results on a Sizzling Minerals sample show that each wafer contains 61 mcg of phosphorus, so there's a little bit in there. However, more importantly, with every refreshing fizzy drink or veggie capsule – there are at least 74 other minerals!
Potential Risks Of Consuming Too Much Phosphorus
While phosphorus is an essential nutrient for the body, consuming too much of it can adversely affect health. For example, high levels of phosphorus in the blood can lead to a condition called hyperphosphatemia, which can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, joint pain, and weakness. In addition, high phosphorus levels can contribute to the development of kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it’s crucial to consume phosphorus in moderation and to talk to a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your phosphorus intake.
Other Ways To Maintain Healthy Bones And Teeth
In addition to consuming phosphorus-rich foods, there are other ways to maintain healthy bones and teeth. Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing exercises like walking and strength training, can help strengthen bones. Getting enough vitamin D through sunlight exposure or supplements is also important for bone health. Calcium is another important nutrient for bone health, so be sure to include calcium-rich foods in your diet as well. Finally, practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
References
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