Phosphorus-(Greek phosphoros 'bearer of light'). Phosphorus is a highly reactive nonmetallic element. It occurs in nature as phospates, commonly in the mineral apatite. Phosphorus is an essential element in the diet, being part of many molecules in the human, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) Phosphorus is a major component of the mineral phase of bone and is present in large quantities in all tissues, and is involved in virtually all metabolic processes.

Historical interests

Therapeutically, phosphorus was used in the treatment of rickets, osteomalacia, scrofula, tuberculosis, and central nervous system diseases. Of course, these historical treatments were unsuccessful and sometimes caused significant illness. Pure phosphorus is poisonous and highly inflammable, and consumption causes fatty degeneration of the liver and other organ/tissues. Inhalation of its vapour causes necrosis (tissue death) of the mandible (lower jaw)

Sources of phosphorus

We obtain significant amounts of phosphates in our diet, considering phospates are major constituents of plant and animal cells. Many food manufacturers also use phosphates as food additives for several reasons. Therefore, the consumer obtains a fair amount of phosphates in the diet.

RDA of phosphorus

In several countries there is no RDA for phosphorus, although in the US, the RDA of phosphorus is roughly equal to that of calcium, except during infancy. 800mg/day is an adequate amount for normal metabolism. Considering, foods that are high in calcium and protein are also high in phosphorus, we usually obtain sufficient amounts of phosphorus with consumption of these foods.

Deficiency of phosphorus

Deficiencyt states of phosphorus are rarely seen because of the abundance of phosphorus in foodsstuffs. Cases where large amounts of aluminum hydroxide antacids have been ingested, have resulted in phosphate definciency through binding with dietary phosphates and thus impeding their absorption. Additionally, kidney malfunction can also lead to phosphate depletion by increased renal (kidney) excretion, with signs of muscle weakness and bone pain.