Phosphorus: found in products: which ones. Lack of phosphorus in the body Where is phosphorus found in the body

From time to time, on the pages of our website we talk about the role of vitamins and minerals for the human body. So, in particular, you can read about what a lack of calcium in the body can lead to and learn how to replenish calcium reserves. Today we invite you to learn about why we need phosphorus, how to properly consume foods that contain phosphorus, and what can happen to us if there is a deficiency or an excess of this substance in our body. We invite you to find out the answers to these questions right now...

The role of phosphorus in the human body

All the vitamins and minerals that our body receives daily from our diet are unique and have a certain effect on our health. Since today we are talking about phosphorus, we will look at exactly what effect it has on our body and what role it plays. So, phosphorus is essential for growth processes(find out here) and maintaining healthy bones and teeth, it is also necessary to regulate the processes of muscle and mental activity. But that's not all. In almost all chemical reactions it is necessary as an element in maintaining the normal process of metabolism, cell growth, muscle function, heart and kidney function...

When our body does not receive the required amount of phosphorus, or there is an excess of it, a certain malfunction occurs in it, which has very real consequences for us.

Also, one cannot help but remember that phosphorus is necessary in order to maintain the normal activity of the nervous system, to participate in the biochemical processes occurring in the human brain; it is also found in nerve cells and tissues, in the blood and in other body fluids. At the same time, being their component, it helps maintain the acid-base balance in the human body. Phosphorus is indispensable in the processes of formation of active forms of vitamins and in the processes of enzyme synthesis...

Consequences of phosphorus deficiency in the human body

Fortunately, given the fact that phosphorus is included in many products from our daily menu, we rarely encounter the phenomenon of its deficiency. Unless your diet is extremely unbalanced, or you eat a lot of foods that contain calcium, but few protein foods and few foods that contain vitamin D. Also, the reasons for the lack of phosphorus in the body can be disruptions in metabolic processes , hormonal disorders, consumption of large quantities of sugary drinks (lemonade, Coca-Cola), poisoning of the body with drugs or alcohol, chronic diseases...

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency in the body

If your body lacks phosphorus, you will definitely feel weakness, general malaise, bursts of mental activity will be replaced by nervous exhaustion and apathy - all this is very reminiscent of the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome or. Your ability to concentrate will decrease, you will become less attentive, you will have no appetite, pain in the muscles and bones will arise, metabolic processes will be disrupted, problems with the liver will arise, and you will begin to suffer from colds and infectious diseases more often.

It is noteworthy that prolonged deficiency and lack of phosphorus can contribute to the development of rickets in the body.

Consequences of excess phosphorus in the human body

If, on the contrary, there is an excess of phosphorus in your body, then this negatively affects the processes of calcium absorption, which affects the formation of the active form of vitamin D, which, as we remember, is very necessary for us. In such a situation, calcium begins to be removed from our bones and deposited in the form of salts in our kidneys, and this is fraught with the further formation of stones (more on that). This leads to problems with the liver, intestines, and blood vessels, and leukopenia can also develop.

How much phosphorus does a person need?

Well, you and I know what happens when there is an excess of phosphorus and when there is a lack of it. But how do you find out the phosphorus level? Fortunately, scientists and specialists have long known the answer to this question. They are sure that The daily norm of this substance for the adult human body is 1500-1700 milligrams. If we translate this into a food equivalent, then this is 6 tablespoons of raw pumpkin seeds (read about their benefits), or 130 grams of good hard cheese.

If we are talking about the daily requirement of phosphorus for a child, then it all depends on his age, but on average it is 1300-2500 milligrams of phosphorus. Well, pregnant women should double this figure, and make sure that their body receives from 3000 to 3400 milligrams of phosphorus per day during pregnancy…

It is noteworthy that you can achieve the maximum positive effect of phosphorus on your body if you use it in “company” with calcium and vitamin D, in a ratio of 1 to 2. You can naturally find such a balance of nutrients in fatty cottage cheese (o) or in hazelnuts...

Phosphorus(phosphorus) is one of the most common chemical elements on our planet. Phosphorus makes up 0.08 - 0.09% of the mass of the Earth's crust.

Phosphorus plays an important biological role and serves as a building material for many cells of living organisms. In the plant world, it is found in all plants. The highest concentration is observed in fruits and seeds of plants.

In the animal world, phosphorus is part of proteins and many vital organic compounds, including enzymes, nucleic acids, and so on. Phosphorus is found in the tissues and organs of living organisms, but the largest amount is found in bone tissue and tooth enamel.

The average human body contains from 500 to 750 grams of phosphorus, with 90% (calcium phosphate) concentrated in bone tissue. In combination with calcium, phosphorus forms mineral structures that provide strength to bone tissue and tooth enamel. Phosphorus plays an important role in the formation of muscle tissue and brain tissue, and is included in their composition as a building material.

One of the important functions of phosphorus is its participation in energy processes occurring in the human body.

In the tissues of a living organism and food products, phosphorus is contained in the form of phosphoric acid and organic compounds of phosphoric acid (phosphates).

Participation of phosphorus in biological processes of the body

Phosphorus is not only included in living cells in the form of a building material, it also takes part in many vital biological processes occurring in the human body:

• Cell division. Phosphorus is involved in the processes of division of living cells and their growth. It is part of nucleic acids, as well as the structure of cell membranes in the form of phospholipids and phosphoproteins.
• Energy synthesis. Phosphorus takes part in the formation and transport of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules, which store energy in our body.
• Metabolism. Phosphorus takes part in the metabolism and production of carbohydrates and proteins.
• CNS. Phosphorus is involved in biological processes that ensure the transmission of electrical impulses along nerve fibers and brain tissue.
• Balance of phosphorus and calcium. Phosphorus and calcium interact closely in the human body and participate in the formation of the same biological structures. In the human body, with the help of parathyroid hormones, a certain balance is maintained between the content of phosphorus and calcium in tissues and organs. This balance is 2 to 1, two parts calcium to one part phosphorus.
• Other functions. Phosphorus interacts with many enzymes and activates the work of vitamin D and B vitamins.

Phosphorus in food

The norm of phosphorus per day is 800 mg, the maximum allowable amount of consumption is 1600 mg.

The bioavailability (ability to be absorbed by the body) of phosphorus supplied with food is no more than 70%. Only fish phosphorus is almost completely absorbed in the intestines.

Phosphorus is found in products:

• milk, dairy products (cheeses)
• meat, offal (beef liver), poultry, eggs
• fish, sturgeon caviar
• bread, oatmeal and buckwheat
• walnuts, seeds
• vegetables, greens (pumpkin, parsley, cabbage, spinach, garlic, carrots).

Lack of phosphorus in the human body

Causes of phosphorus deficiency:

• phosphorus metabolism disorders
• unsatisfactory amount of macronutrient intake into the body (low protein intake)
• excessive levels of magnesium, calcium, barium, aluminum compounds in the body
• excessive consumption of synthetic drinks (carbonated drinks, etc.)
• long-term chronic illnesses
• poisoning, drug addiction, alcoholism
• pathologies of the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands
• kidney disease
• feeding an infant with artificial formula

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency:

• general weakness, loss of appetite, exhaustion
• muscle and bone pain
• Resistance to infections and colds decreases;
• liver protein synthesis decreases
• dystrophic changes in the myocardium, hemorrhagic rashes on the mucous membranes and skin appear
• in some cases – mental disorders
• rickets, periodontal disease

When there is more phosphorus than calcium in the body, the human body will use the calcium that is stored in the bones.

Excess phosphorus in the human body

Phosphorus and phosphates are non-toxic. The lethal dose for humans is considered to be 60 mg of phosphorus. A number of phosphorus compounds (phosphine) are highly toxic. Poisoning with phosphorus compounds provokes dysfunction of the kidneys and liver, cardiovascular system, digestive tract, as well as other systems and organs.

Causes of excess phosphorus:

• excessive phosphorus intake (excess protein in foods)
• consumption of large quantities of canned products, lemonades
• long-term interaction with organophosphorus compounds
• phosphorus metabolism disorders

Symptoms of excess phosphorus:

• deposition of poorly soluble phosphates in tissues
• damage to the digestive tract and liver
• bone decalcification (osteoporosis)
• hemorrhages and bleeding
• leukopenia, anemia

Harm from phosphates used in the food industry

In the food industry, phosphates are used in products for the following purposes:

• As an acidulant in carbonated drinks
• Phosphates retain water in food, increasing its weight and volume, preventing the formation of broth-fat edema, and preventing drying out during storage. Mainly used in fish, poultry and meat products (boiled, boiled-smoked sausages, sausages)
• Phosphates are added to condensed milk to help prevent the product from crystallizing.
• They are added to dry bulk products, preventing caking and the formation of lumps in the powder. It is used in dry cream, milk powder, powders containing dry cocoa.
• Added to processed cheeses, providing their consistency
• Used for temperature processing of milk and dairy products
• When making ice cream and other products from dry mixes, phosphates increase the rate of their dissolution during production.
• Used to increase the shelf life of butter and margarine

The following symbols can be found on the labels:

• E 340 - potassium phosphates
• E 338 - orthophosphoric acid (or simply phosphoric)
• E 343 - magnesium phosphates
• E 341 - calcium phosphates
• E 342 - ammonium phosphates

Consequences of the harmful effects of phosphates:

• Excessive intake of phosphates into the human body disrupts the balance in tissues between phosphorus and calcium, which leads to disruption of the structure of bone tissue and disruption of metabolic processes in the human body. Excess phosphorus leads to bone diseases in the form of osteoporosis.
• Excess phosphorus leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and an increased risk of heart attacks. This occurs due to the deposition of calcium on the inner walls of blood vessels, which leads to their blockage. All this occurs due to a disturbance in the calcium-phosphorus balance.

Interaction of phosphorus with other elements and drugs

Phosphorus in its pure form is a chemically unstable element, so it easily interacts with other substances. In nature and in our body, phosphorus is found mainly in the form of chemical compounds with other substances.

Let's consider substances that can have a significant effect on the phosphorus content in the human body:

• Alcohol may leach phosphorus from bones and reduce overall levels in the body
• Antacids(reduce stomach acidity) containing aluminum, calcium or magnesium can bind phosphates in the intestines. When used long-term, these drugs can lead to a decrease in phosphorus levels in the human body (hypophosphatemia).
• Anticonvulsants can reduce phosphorus levels and increase levels of alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme that helps remove phosphate from the body.
• Bile acid preparations reduce blood cholesterol levels. They may reduce the oral absorption of phosphate from food or supplements. Oral phosphate supplements should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after these medications.
• Corticosteroids, including increasing the level of phosphorus in the urine
• Potassium or preparations with high potassium content, can lead to too much potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia). Hyperkalemia can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias). Salt substitutes that also contain high levels of potassium and phosphorus may cause low levels when used in the long term.
• ACE inhibitors (blood pressure medicine). These are drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) used to treat high blood pressure that can lower phosphorus levels.
• Other medicines can also reduce phosphorus levels. These drugs include cyclosporine (used to suppress the immune system), cardiac glycosides (digoxin or Lanoxin), heparins (blood thinners), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen).

Sea fish must be included in the diet, because it contains a lot of phosphorus, say nutritionists and doctors. But why do we need it and how does a lack of phosphorus in the body affect human health?

Phosphorus and its importance for the body

Phosphorus is one of the most common chemical elements on Earth, so the earth’s crust consists of 0.08-0.09% of this substance. In the human body, phosphorus is also approximately 1% of body weight and is part of almost all cells.

Up to 85% of phosphorus is contained in the hard tissues of bones and teeth, and another 15% takes part in the transmission of nerve impulses, the synthesis of hormones and enzymes and in metabolic processes, that is, in all the most important chemical reactions of the human body.

Functions of phosphorus:

• Ensuring the growth and maintaining the strength of bones and teeth is the most important function of phosphorus. Phosphorus, along with calcium, ensures normal growth and development of bone tissue in children and adolescents, and in adults it protects bones and teeth from destruction;
• synthesis of nerve cells, hormones and enzymes - phosphorus is involved in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, neurons, hormones and enzymes, substances that ensure the transmission of hereditary information in cells, the transmission of nerve impulses and many other reactions, for example, the synthesis of vitamins;
• participates in metabolism - without phosphorus, the exchange of proteins and carbohydrates, as well as intracellular metabolism, is impossible;
• maintaining acid-base balance - phosphorus is part of the blood, lymph and other liquid tissues of the body;
• participation in energy metabolism - phosphorus is part of ATP and other compounds, the breakdown of which produces energy, due to which muscles contract and metabolic processes occur in the blood and cells;
• ensuring the functioning of the cardiovascular and urinary systems - a decrease in phosphorus has an extremely negative effect on the state of the cardiovascular system and kidney function.

Causes of phosphorus deficiency

Every day, an adult, healthy person should receive up to 1500 mg of phosphorus, because this substance cannot be synthesized in our body, and the daily loss of phosphorus in urine can be about 1000 mg. Moreover, phosphorus is absorbed only with sufficient calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamins A and D and some other microelements.

Phosphorus deficiency in the human body is quite rare, since this element is found in almost all products of animal and plant origin.

But, unfortunately, only about 70% of phosphorus salts are absorbed with food and not all of this amount will be beneficial for the human body.

As the chemical industry developed, various phosphates began to be added to food products: sodium phosphates E 339, potassium phosphates E340, calcium phosphates E 341, ammonium E342, magnesium E343 or phosphoric acid - E 338.

Such additives contain carbonated drinks, various candies and chewing gums, sausages, powdered milk and cream, and much, much more. Once in the body, these substances are not used for their intended purpose, but accumulate in it, disrupting metabolism, kidney function and destroying joints and connective tissue.

Alimentary or primary phosphorus deficiency practically does not occur; a lack of this substance in the body can occur due to:

• metabolic disorders;
• excessive consumption of carbonated drinks, various food additives and dyes;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• chronic or long-term acute diseases;
• poisoning – with chemicals, alcohol or other substances;
• taking medications - long-term use of drugs containing aluminum, magnesium and some other substances can cause phosphorus deficiency, since their excess interferes with the normal absorption and assimilation of phosphorus;
• following a “protein-free” diet - long-term restriction of protein foods in the diet can also cause a lack of phosphorus in the body, including due to a lack of calcium, vitamin D and A;
• artificial feeding - in young children, a lack of phosphorus can be caused by feeding an unadapted infant formula or such unsuitable products as cow's milk, fermented milk products, and so on.

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency

Phosphorus deficiency may not be diagnosed by patients for quite a long time, since this condition does not have characteristic symptoms.

With a slight deficiency of phosphorus, a person experiences constant malaise, his performance decreases, his interest in life disappears, he becomes apathetic or, conversely, too irritable, his sleep and appetite worsen. If the amount of phosphorus supplied with food does not increase or it is not absorbed, signs of depression of the higher nervous system appear: memory and intelligence deteriorate, and mood swings appear.

With a pronounced lack of phosphorus, the following is observed:

• weakness, drowsiness, headaches - and these symptoms are constantly present and do not depend on external factors: duration of sleep, rest and amount of exercise;
• trembling in the muscles, weakening of muscle tone, decreased physical activity - without phosphorus, muscles weaken and a person has difficulty performing normal types of work or suffers from pain and tremors in the muscles;
• loss of appetite – when the concentration of phosphorus in the blood decreases, a sharp decrease or complete absence of appetite is typical;
• feelings of anxiety, fear, irritation - due to changes in the nervous system, unreasonable anxieties, fears, a constant feeling of irritation and attacks of aggression arise;
• change in skin sensitivity - numbness of the skin of the upper and lower extremities may develop, or vice versa, the skin becomes too sensitive, any touch, cold or warm objects can cause an unpleasant sensation or even pain;
• disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular and urinary systems - metabolic disorders, decreased ATP levels cause changes in the functioning of the heart muscle and the glomerular system of the kidneys;
• Pathologies of the osteoarticular system are the most characteristic sign of phosphorus deficiency. Pain in the joints, bones, joint deformation, degenerative diseases and frequent fractures can occur not only due to calcium deficiency, but also due to phosphorus deficiency;
• hematological disorders - lack of phosphorus causes the development of anemia, thrombocytopenia and decreased production of leukocytes.

What to do if you have a phosphorus deficiency

With a severe lack of phosphorus, you can only help by discovering the exact cause of the development of deficiency of this substance, since such a condition is always secondary.

And to compensate for the deficiency, medications such as riboxin, phytin, phosphocoline, ATP and others are most often prescribed.

If the phosphorus deficiency is minor, correction of diet and diet can cope with it.

The absorption of phosphorus is possible only with a sufficient amount of calcium and vitamin D, but at the same time, excess phosphorus interferes with the normal absorption of calcium, magnesium and other trace elements. Therefore, you can enrich your diet with foods rich in phosphorus or take special supplements only if there is a laboratory-proven deficiency of this substance.

And to prevent phosphorus deficiency you can:

• eat more products of animal origin - fish, liver, eggs, butter, dairy products not only contain a lot of easily digestible phosphorus, but are also rich in calcium, vitamins D and A, which help the normal absorption of phosphorus;
• be sure to add fresh green vegetables and fruits to your diet, as well as more nuts and dried fruits.

The record holders for phosphorus content are: mushrooms, dry yeast, wheat bran, pumpkin seeds, zucchini, nuts, beans, sea fish, liver and dairy products.

Source: http://OnWomen.ru/nedostatok-fosfora-v-organizme.html

Phosphorus in the body: how much phosphorus is needed, deficiency and excess of phosphorus, phosphorus in foods

Phosphorus is a trace element that a person needs for life. Without it, not a single biochemical reaction occurs in the body. The main role of phosphorus in the human body can be called ensuring the normal growth of bone and dental tissue, as well as further maintaining their integrity throughout a person’s life.

If we consider the location of phosphorus in the body, then 80% of the total amount of this element is in the mineral part of teeth and bones, and the remaining percentage is distributed in muscles, fluids and organs.

The role of phosphorus in the body Lack of phosphorus in the body - what happens Excess phosphorus in the body Phosphorus in foods How to ensure proper absorption of phosphorus

The role of phosphorus in the body

Phosphoric acid is an active participant in the process of building phosphatases - enzymes that are “responsible” for the normal course of chemical reactions in cells.

This same acid is actively involved in fat metabolism, the production and breakdown of starch and glycogen, is one of the components of skeletal tissue, and a particularly large amount of it is located in the tissues of nerve cells and the brain.

Scientists claim that without phosphorus the thinking process is impossible, a person will not even be able to move, since muscle contraction occurs precisely due to various phosphorus compounds. Fermentation and respiration (processes that are fundamental to all living things) also cannot occur without the presence of phosphoric acid.

In addition, phosphorus is involved in the following processes:

1. Normalizes protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Moreover, the microelement in question takes an active part not only in “global” metabolic processes, but also those that occur directly inside cells and muscles.
2. Energy exchange. Phosphorus compounds (creatine phosphate and adenosine triphosphoric acid) ensure the occurrence of all processes necessary for the normal functioning of the body. If the reserves of these phosphorus compounds are present in insufficient quantities, then a real tragedy can occur - the muscles will simply stop contracting, and nervous/motor or mental activity will simply become impossible.
3. Forms highly active compounds. For example, with proteins and fatty acids - lecithin, which is necessary for the formation of cell and brain membranes. It is well known that lecithin is consumed in huge quantities by the body under excessive stress, both physical and psycho-emotional. If there is not enough phosphorus in the body, the cells of the brain and all other organs will remain unprotected, which will lead to their death.
4. Part of nucleic acids. These compounds store and transmit hereditary information and are responsible for normal cell division and growth.
5. Maintains acid-base balance. This is due to the fact that various phosphorus compounds are found in blood and other fluids. By the way, it is thanks to phosphorus that active forms of vitamins can be formed - the microelement in question “triggers” the processes necessary for this.

Lack of phosphorus in the body - what happens

Even if a person consumes a sufficient amount of foods that contain phosphorus, he may become deficient in this microelement. And in this case, the person will feel weak and complain of general malaise.

He may have unexpected bursts of intellectual activity, but they are always replaced by nervous exhaustion.

People who have a lack of phosphorus in the body can actively react to the world around them, communicate and visit crowded places, and then suddenly fall into apathy and depression.

Phosphorus deficiency in the body may be associated with:

• excess of magnesium, calcium, aluminum compounds in the body;
• drinking large amounts of carbonated drinks;
• long-term diseases, including chronic ones;
• drug, alcohol, food poisoning;
• pathologies of the kidneys and thyroid gland of a chronic nature.

Please note: phosphorus deficiency is often detected in young children who are bottle-fed. This development of events is fraught with rickets for the baby.

In general, a lack of phosphorus in the human body will definitely manifest itself - for example, serious problems with metabolism and liver dysfunction will begin.

There will definitely be a decrease in immunity (frequent infections and colds), persistent muscle pain will appear, appetite will worsen, up to a complete loss, and concentration will decrease.

A lack of phosphorus can also lead to pathological changes in the heart, osteoporosis and hemorrhages of various origins.

Excess phosphorus in the body

Too much phosphorus in the human body is also not good. This condition leads to:

• urolithiasis;
• pathological lesions of the intestines and liver;
• development of anemia and leukopenia;
• development of hemorrhages and bleeding;
• loss of bone tissue calcium;
• development of osteoporosis.

Important! If phosphorus poisoning occurs, that is, too much of this microelement enters the body at once, then the functioning of the entire digestive system, heart, liver and kidneys is disrupted, and many small hemorrhages appear, including on the retina of the eyes.

In what cases is excess phosphorus possible? Well, firstly, with prolonged contact with various phosphorus compounds, this may be associated with work activity. Secondly, excessive consumption of canned food, lemonade, and protein products leads to excess phosphorus. Thirdly, the problem in question can arise from metabolic disorders if they are not treated and corrected.

Phosphorus in products

The daily human need for phosphorus is 1200 mg and a deficiency of this microelement is quite difficult to tolerate - one would have to become a strict vegetarian and eat fruits/berries/vegetables/fruits that grow on soils poor in this microelement. If a person eats well, then the daily dose of phosphorus enters his body from many products:

• pumpkin, cabbage, parsley;
• nuts, legumes, cereals;
• whole grain products, black bread;
• spinach, garlic, carrots;
• milk, cheese;
• fish, meat, beef liver;
• berries and mushrooms;
• eggs.

How to ensure proper absorption of phosphorus

If there is an excess of aluminum, magnesium and iron, then phosphorus in the body will become completely ineffective, even if its amount is within normal limits.

At the same time, excess phosphorus leads to loss of calcium and poor absorption of magnesium, which is fraught with arrhythmia, migraines, and back pain.

How to regulate the process of assimilation of all important elements in the body without harming each other?

For example, over the age of 40, a person’s table should prioritize vegetables and herbs, dairy products, rather than meat.

This correction will facilitate the work of the kidneys, and they will be able to actively remove excess phosphorus from the body. It would be a good idea to consider a few more points:

1. Canned foods to which phosphates are added can lead to excess phosphorus in the body, so there is no need to get carried away with such nutrition.
2. Phosphorus works in the right mode in the presence of calcium and vitamin D, but there should be twice as much calcium as phosphorus - dairy products should be on the menu almost constantly, since they are the main suppliers of calcium to the body.
3. The need for phosphorus increases significantly with physical activity and lack of protein, excessive consumption of sugar, and long-term use of certain hormonal medications.
4. Vitamins A, D, F, as well as potassium, iron, magnesium and calcium in balanced quantities will help the absorption of phosphorus. Therefore, it is important to periodically take a course of multivitamin complexes, but only with the permission of a doctor.
5. It is best to replenish phosphorus deficiency in the body with food, but in especially severe cases, drug therapy may be necessary - Riboxin, phosphocoline, phytin and other medications will be prescribed.

Phosphorus plays a vital role in the body, just like other microelements.

A deficiency or excess of it can lead to irreversible pathological processes, so it is important to ensure that phosphorus enters the body in normal quantities.

A specialist will help with this, but independently increasing the amount of foods rich in phosphorus consumed or taking some vitamin complexes will lead to extremely undesirable consequences.

Tsygankova Yana Aleksandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category

The role of phosphorus in the human body. How dangerous is phosphorus deficiency and excess?

The human body contains a huge variety of chemical elements.

Each of them performs specific functions.

Phosphorus is present in minerals such as phosphorite and apatite.

It does not occur as an independent unit in nature.

The role and function of phosphorus in the human body

The first official mention of phosphorus dates back to 1669. The element was discovered by accident, by a chemist named Henning Brand. The object of his study was human urine. According to the scientist, its yellow color was due to its gold content.

In order to prove his hypothesis, Henning conducted research. By evaporating and heating urine to certain temperatures, the chemist discovered the presence of a luminous substance in it. A little later it was found that this is a simple element, and not a component of a chemical compound.

To understand why this element is needed, it is necessary to study the role of phosphorus in the human body, its main functions and percentage.

Organogen is one of the main components of the cell DNA. It transmits genetic information during the process of reproduction. It is quite difficult to overestimate the function of this cell.

The main functions of the substance include:

• Ensuring muscle contraction;
• Participation in the transport of nutrients;
• Effect on bone growth and strength;
• Activation of enzymes;
• Participation in the transmission of impulses to nerve endings.

Almost any process taking place in the human body is impossible without the participation of phosphorus. He takes immediate participation in connecting processes elements such as creatine phosphate and ATP.

Thanks to its presence, muscle activity occurs. Without his participation, muscle contraction is impossible.

Transport of nutrients ensures the supply of necessary elements to every vital organ. Violation of this process leads to serious diseases. In the structure of bones phosphorus participates together with calcium.

Important: In the body of an adult, up to 750 grams of this element are present. The main part is concentrated in bones and teeth.

Enzymes are participants in the process of adaptation of substances entering the human body. Phosphorus activates enzyme activity, thereby accelerating metabolic processes. It significantly improves the absorption of vitamins B, D, glucose, etc. by the body’s cells.

The luminous substance has an equally significant effect on receptivity of nerve endings.

Shortage

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency in the human body can be similar to signs of calcium deficiency or magnesium deficiency. If the amount of one of the substances is reduced, the level of others should be checked. Bringing health back to normal requires an integrated approach.

The daily dose of organogen in the body is 1200 mg. Lack of an element is determined by a number of signs. A medical examination can provide the most complete information.

Attention: Phosphorus deficiency in childhood interferes with the normal growth of nerve fibers and brain cells, which impedes mental development.

Causes

It has been established that the decrease in phosphorus reserves does not occur without reason. Most often this deviation observed in obese people.

There may be several reasons for the shortage. These include the following:

• Fasting or strict diets;
• Diseases accompanied by metabolic disorders;
• Poisoning;
• Excessive consumption of sugary carbonated drinks;
• Period of pregnancy or breastfeeding;
• An excess of substances such as calcium, barium, aluminum or magnesium.

Phosphorus deficiency is common in formula-fed infants. Mother's milk contains much more nutrients necessary for the development of the baby. The microelements included in the mixture are not always absorbed properly.

People prone to display deviations include patients with diabetes, alcohol drinkers, patients suffering from hormonal disorders. To prevent the development of unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to regularly monitor the level of the microelement.

On a note: Phosphorus is partially removed from the body during urination.

Symptoms

• Painful sensations in bone tissue and muscles;
• Pathological changes in the myocardium;
• Decreased immunity;
• Development of periodontal disease;
• Mental illnesses.

Peculiarities: a person suffering from phosphorus deficiency gradually loses vitality. He develops apathy and may experience depression.

Excess

An excessive amount of phosphorus in the body is just as undesirable as its deficiency. Oversaturation of the substance often occurs in people not having control over their daily diet. An excess of phosphorus in the body in children, like an excess of other substances, is fraught with the appearance of allergies.

To prevent deviations, you should control the quantity and quality of food consumed.

Causes

Some time ago, a shortage of a substance was much more common than a surplus. But over the past few years, with the development of the food industry, everything has changed. Chemical compounds began to be used in the manufacture of carbonated drinks, some bulk products, as well as meat and dairy products.

The main reasons for phosphorus oversaturation may be the following:

• Metabolic disease;
• Excessive consumption of protein foods;
• The presence of a large number of foods with additives in the diet;
• Substance poisoning.

If the intake of a substance into the body through food can be controlled by a person, then no one is safe from the poisoning process. This is especially true for people whose professional activities are associated with white organogen. This species is considered poisonous.

In case of poisoning, general weakness of the body occurs, headache and nausea appear. Around the 3rd day, a person exposed to poisoning develops jaundice. At the same time, a burning sensation is felt in the stomach and oral cavity.

Symptoms

As the amount of phosphorus in the body increases, various diseases develop. Violations can be detected by the presence of certain signs. Among them are:

• Frequent bleeding;
• Decreased immunity;
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Deviations in liver function;
• Salt deposits;
• Decreased bone density.

Sources for humans

Required amount of microelement enters the human body with food. The main source of the substance is protein foods. This includes fish, poultry and any type of meat.

Large amounts of phosphorus can also be found in dairy products, red caviar, nuts, legumes and some types of cereals. A certain amount of the element is contained in whole grain bread.

Balance with other microelements and vitamins

Phosphorus performs its functions in tandem with calcium. This combination of elements is actively involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates. Inhibition of this process contributes to the development of serious diseases.

Calcium has a positive effect on the process of microelement absorption. In your daily diet, it is necessary to maintain a balance in the use of foods rich in these substances.

No less beneficial effect on the absorption process fat derivatives of vitamin B8 and vitamin D3. Products rich in these components must be present in the diet of any person.

Control over the level of the element in the body must be reasonable. In certain situations, appropriate medications are prescribed. Any medications are taken on the recommendation of a specialist. Self-treatment can lead to a worsening of the situation.

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Source: http://foodra.org/mikroelementy/fosfor/rol-v-organizme.html

The role of phosphorus in the human body, its deficiency and excess

Everyone has been familiar with phosphorus since childhood because it glows in the dark because of its properties (phosphorus paint was used to paint Christmas tree decorations or masquerade masks), but not everyone knows that translated from Greek the word phosphorus literally means luminous (carrying light). It’s a pity, but white phosphorus, as the most chemically active, is the most toxic to humans, and red phosphorus is best known as an incendiary element in the production of matches. But at the same time, phosphorus is a necessary and useful macronutrient for the body of any person.

Most of the phosphorus found in the human body (about 90%) is concentrated in bones and teeth. The role of phosphorus in the human body is important, since strong teeth are a sign of health. The basis of bone solid matter is phosphorus and calcium.

70% of the phosphorus that is concentrated in the bones is in the form of calcium phosphate, a sparingly soluble compound, and a smaller part (30%) is presented in the form of various soluble compounds. Phosphorus affects the active absorption of calcium in the intestine.

Food of plant origin can contain a lot of phosphorus, but it is absorbed in very small quantities; the main source of replenishing phosphorus reserves in the body is fish and meat. Some of the phosphorus is found in the blood, brain tissue and muscles, and 99% of this remaining phosphorus in the human body is located inside the cells, and only 1% of it is concentrated in the extracellular fluid.

Clinical studies of blood tests do not allow us to judge its total content in the body, although deviations from the norm in one direction or another indicate a disturbance in phosphorus metabolism. For example, low levels of phosphate in the blood can cause the disease hypophosphatemia.

The average adult body contains approximately 670 g of phosphorus, or, based on total body weight, 1% of body weight. Vitamin D, parathyroid hormone and calcitonin regulate phosphorus levels in the body.

Calcium and vitamin D contribute to the normal absorption and functioning of phosphorus, and the optimal ratio of calcium to phosphorus should be 2 to 1. A high content of elements such as aluminum, iron, magnesium negatively affects the absorption of phosphorus.

In the circulatory system of the body, phosphorus is found in the form of compounds of inorganic phosphates with organic phosphorus esters and free nucleotides with phospholipids.

Inorganic phosphorus orthophosphates found in blood plasma are partially distributed in tissue fluid, and are also located in the reserves of plasma systems and ensure the process of moving energy between all cells of the body. During the process of ossification of the bone structure, phosphorus ensures the correct distribution of calcium.

Lack of phosphorus in the human body

Lack of phosphorus in the human body - hypophosphatemia can occur not only due to improperly balanced food, but due to various concomitant diseases (lack of phosphorus occurs, for example, with renal failure, alcoholism).

Decreased thyroid function, impaired renal function, long-term use of medications containing large amounts of antacids and aluminum hydroxides, and alcohol intoxication can lead to hyposphatemia.

This disease is characterized by muscle weakness, muscle pain, hemorrhages in the skin, various changes in bone tissue, leading to fragility and bone fractures.

Phosphorus deficiency is often observed in people with a vegetarian diet (refusal of meat, poultry, fish and dairy products). A lack of phosphorus in the body has an acute effect on well-being and mental activity is inhibited.

Excess phosphorus in the human body

Excess phosphorus in the human body - hyperphosphatemia can occur due to eating foods poor in calcium and high in vitamin D. Also, concomitant diseases such as renal failure and dysfunction of the thyroid gland can cause excess phosphorus in the body.

As a rule, excess phosphorus manifests itself only when convulsions associated with calcium deficiency make themselves felt. If there is an excess of phosphorus, patients are advised to eat foods of plant origin with a low phosphorus content and treat the concomitant disease.

Frequent consumption of various carbonated drinks, canned foods and protein foods can also cause hyperphosphatemia.

What foods contain phosphorus?

The main sources of phosphorus for the human body are meat, fish, seafood, milk and dairy products. The highest phosphorus content is in beef liver, turkey meat, almonds, milk, and broccoli. Phosphorus contained in food of plant origin is poorly absorbed by the human body.

Phosphorus absorbed from the stomach is stored in the human liver as a reserve. It is deposited in the form of mineral salts and part of these salts enters the blood, and the other part of it combines with elements that the body does not need and is excreted from the body.

The body of an adult healthy person should receive phosphorus in an amount of about 1200 mg per day.

Be healthy and cheerful!

What foods contain phosphorus? How is the story of its discovery related to the mythical philosopher's stone? How many mg is the daily requirement? What functions does it perform in the body? Symptoms of deficiency and excess.

Phosphorus is not found in its pure form, because it is characterized by high chemical activity, due to which it quickly interacts with other elements. It was isolated in 1669 by the alchemist Hennig Brand, who dreamed of discovering the mythical philosopher's stone, capable of miraculously turning metals into gold. In his experiments, Brand used the method of settling and evaporating urine, as a result of which yellowish crystals appeared in the sediment, glowing in the dark - phosphorus. And only at the end of the 19th century, scientists discovered that phosphorus is remarkable not only as an amazing luminous crystal, it is also a chemical element useful for humans.

What functions does phosphorus perform in the human body?

1. Together with calcium, it makes up the main mineral complex of bone tissue - oxyapatite.
2. It is part of phospholipids that are found in lipoprotein cell membranes and subcellular organelles.
3. It is part of nucleic acids and nucleotides (DNA and RNA).
4. Provides a number of enzymatic processes, participating in most coenzymes.
5. Helps the body obtain energy thanks to its high-energy compounds - ATP and creatine phosphate (they accumulate energy released during oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis).
6. Maintains acid-base balance.

Daily phosphorus requirement

For an adult it is 1600 mg. Women during pregnancy and lactation (1800-2000 mg), as well as athletes during intense physical activity, have an increased need. You should know that the ratio of phosphorus and calcium entering the body should be 1:2 (i.e. Ca is 2 times more than P).

Phosphorus deficiency in the human body

The cause of the development of phosphorus deficiency may be long-term use of antacid medications (lowering acidity). As a result of this deficiency, a person develops pain in bones and muscles, weakness, periodontal disease, and caries. Other reasons may be:

• low protein diet;
• increased intake of iron, magnesium, barium, aluminum, calcium into the body;
• alcoholism;
• endocrine diseases;
• chronic kidney disease;
• drinking lemonade in large quantities.

Excess

An overabundance is typical if the diet is dominated by fish, meat and grain products. All this leads to a decrease in bone density (osteoporosis), which is why fractures appear even with slight physical impact. If there is a lot of phosphorus in the body, then calcium begins to be absorbed worse by the intestines, and vitamin D is converted more slowly into its active form. As a result, there is an intensive leaching of calcium from the body (bone and dental tissue).

Phosphorus is a chemical element that is a vital component for many living organisms, including humans. About 70% of the substance is contained in bones and teeth, while between 500 and 750 grams of phosphorus are present throughout the body. FeelGood talks about why the body needs phosphorus, as well as what foods contain it.

What is phosphorus?

Phosphorus was isolated as a chemical element back in 1669. Initially, due to its ability to glow in the dark, it was considered a miraculous stone that could turn any metal into gold. It was only in the 19th century that scientists discovered that this substance has value for human health.

Daily value of phosphorus

It is known that for normal life, an adult needs at least 1200 mg of this valuable substance per day. Moreover, for children under 1 year of age this norm is significantly lower - 300-500 mg, whereas at the age of 7-10 years a child already needs 1600 mg of the microelement.

Functions in the body

The main function of phosphorus in the body is to provide energy. It takes part in the exchange of energy between proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as in the process of transmitting nerve impulses throughout the body. Phosphorus also ensures that our bones and teeth are strong. This is possible due to the fact that the macroelement is not just part of the said tissue, but also forms the mineral structure of the bones. In addition to these functions, phosphorus is involved in the process of cell division, metabolism and regulation of acid-base balance. And although, at first glance, it may seem that the role of phosphorus in this role is not so important, without it our body simply cannot function fully.

Phosphorus in products

If there is not enough phosphorus in the body, a person may experience a decrease in appetite, fatigue, lethargy, and over time even develop osteoporosis. To provide your body with this useful substance, you need to know which foods contain phosphorus. And so, the most useful sources of phosphorus are: dairy products, especially cottage cheese and cheese, poultry and beef liver, eggs, fish and sturgeon caviar, oatmeal and buckwheat, walnuts, vegetables (pumpkin, spinach, cabbage, garlic, carrots) ,

Excess phosphorus in the body

The intake of phosphorus into the body has not only positive aspects. For example, if you constantly consume protein foods, canned products or lemonade, you can oversaturate the body with phosphorus, which can impair the functioning of the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system.