Phosphorus
What Is It?
Phosphorus is a vital mineral present in every cell of the body and also forms part of the cell membrane. It is second to calcium and abundant in the body with 85% being stored in the bones. Its name derives from the Greek words ‘Phos’ meaning light and ‘phorus’ meaning bearer (light bearer).
Phosphorus is essential for growth, most importantly for building strong bones and teeth (which is where it is the main structural component, as calcium phosphate). Calcium and phosphorus work together to provide a strong and solid skeletal structure.
It is also a key mineral in the production and storage of energy; it helps to maintain a nor-mal pH level in the blood and is the backbone of DNA. A proper balance of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus should be maintained at all times to prevent adverse effects on the body
Phosphorus obtained from food is easily absorbed in the small intestine, with any excess eliminated by the kidneys.
Why Do We Need It?
In combination with calcium, phosphorus is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth and of nerve cells. It is key in biological elements such as DNA and RNA.
Phosphorus is used to transport cellular energy in the form of ATP
(Adenosine Triphosphate). It can also help regulate hormones, improves digestion, kidney health and brain function.
Deficiency Symptoms
Although deficiency in phosphorus is very rare it can occur in cases of starvation, alcohol-ism and some types of diabetes.
Symptoms such as anxiety, bone pain, fatigue, irregular breathing, irritability and weak-ness can be indications that the body is becoming deficient.
Where Can We Find It?
Phosphorus is found in the seeds of plants in the form of phytates known as phytic
acid. Phytates lessen the availability of calcium, magnesium and iron, but as phosphorus is present in most foods this should not cause any problems.
You will find phosphorus in, asparagus, alfalfa sprouts, artichokes, beetroot greens,
broccoli, cauliflower, celeriac, chives, cress, cucumber, garlic, kelp, lettuce (red leaf), mushrooms, nuts, pak-choi, pumpkin seeds, radish, seaweed, sesame and sunflower seeds, Swiss chard and tomatoes.
Be-Aware:
High doses of aluminum-coated antacids can cause loss of phosphorus. If taking the sup-plement Lecithin, be aware that the inositol and choline held inside the capsules may raise phosphorus levels unbalancing calcium-phosphorus levels.
A diet high in fat increases phosphorus absorption and lowers calcium level
Taking excess amounts of phosphorus supplements can lead to calcium deficiency.
Studies/Research
Studies have shown that drinking large amounts of phosphorus rich fizzy drinks reduces bone mineralisation leading to a greater risk of bone fracture.
Clinical studies have shown that supplementation of calcium/phosphate may be beneficial with diabetes and kidney stones.
Clinical studies suggest that low dietary calcium to phosphorus may be associated with high cancer risk and hypertension
References:
Vitamins & Minerals DeMystified - Dr Steve Blake
The Vitamin Bible - Earl Mindell
Nutritional Healing - Phyllis A. Balch
Nutrients A - Z - Dr Michael Sharon
Nutiritional Influences on Illness - Melvyn R Werbach
www.sciencedirect.com
www.sciencedirect.com
www.sciencedirect.com
www.organicfacts.net
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.