Importance of Phosphorus in the Diet
May 19th, 2009Phosphorus (represented by the letter “P” on the periodic table) can be found in all cells and body fluids, after calcium, phosphorus is the second abundant mineral in our body where it is present in a approximate amount of 650 mg. It is also easily a mineral can be found in many foods., This important element has key roles in the body such as those listed below:
• Participates in the division and cell growth.
• Intervenes in maintaining and building bone and proper development of teeth.
• Nourishes the brain to improve memory (the match is known as brain food).
• Participates in almost all metabolic processes and energy in the body.
• Helps maintain blood pH slightly alkaline.
• It is a very important component of DNA, is part of all cell membranes particularly in brain tissues.
• Increases the resistance of people who do heavy physical work and in the athletes, which will provide a physical condition more competitive.
• Assists in the normal secretion of milk.
• intervenes in the formation of muscle tissue and cell metabolism.
Fortunately, in almost every food we can find a good dose of phosphorus. Here are some options.
Foods rich in phosphorus:
• Seafood: fish, salmon, tuna, etc..
• Seaweeds
• Pollen, honey, royal jelly and derivatives.
• Nuts: sunflower, sesame, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, granola, etc..
• Legumes: soybeans, broccoli, carrots, alfalfa and other legumes in different percentages.
• Cereals: oats, spelled, amaranth, brown rice, yeast, wheat bran.
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Tofu and soy
• Dried fruits
• Whole grains and legumes.
Because phosphorus is found in most foods, its deficiency is very rare, even if symptoms when there is deficiency.
Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency:
• Decay.
• Weakness.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Kidney diseases.
• Poor memory.
• tremors and dysarthria
• In some cases, anorexia and respiratory disorders.
• Vitamin D.
Recommended dosage:
• Serves approximately between 800 to 1200 mg, especially among those under 24 years of
Calcium-phosphorus ratio
These must be in balance in the body and the abundance or deficiency of any of these minerals affect the ability to absorb the other. The excess phosphorus, for example, reduces the absorption of calcium. Currently it appears that the frequent ingestion of antacids causes reduced phosphorus in the body.
The natural way in which the body eliminates excess phosphorus is through urine.