Phosphorus

Also indexed as: Phosphate

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Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is usually found in nature combined with oxygen as phosphate. Most of the phosphate in the human body is in bone, but phosphate-containing molecules (phospholipids) are also important components of cell membranes and lipoprotein particles, such as HDL and LDL (“good” and “bad” cholesterols, respectively). Small amounts of phosphate play important roles in numerous biochemical reactions throughout the body.

Where is it found?

Phosphorus is highest in protein-rich foods and cereal grains. In addition, phosphorus additives are used in many fizzy drinks and packaged foods. Phosphorus is not often present in supplements except for certain calcium supplements, such as bone meal.

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Phosphorus has been used in connection with the following condition (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings Health Concerns
2Stars

Osteoporosis (for elderly people taking calcium supplements)
1Star

Athletic performance
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
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Who is likely to be deficient?

Phosphorus deficiency is uncommon, because dietary intake is usually adequate.1 Chronic alcoholics may become deficient in phosphorus.2 and people taking large amounts of aluminium-containing antacids3

One study has shown that taking calcium can interfere with the absorption of phosphorus, which, like calcium, is important for bone health.4 . Although most western diets contain ample or even excessive amounts of phosphorus, older people who supplement with large amounts of calcium may be at risk of developing phosphorus deficiency. For this reason, the authors of this study recommend that, for elderly people, at least some of the supplemental calcium be taken in the form of tricalcium phosphate or some other phosphorus-containing preparation.

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How much is usually taken?

Phosphorus supplements are unnecessary. Most multiple vitamin-mineral supplements do not contain phosphorus for this reason.

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Are there any side effects or interactions?

People with severe kidney disease must avoid excessive phosphorus. High phosphorus intake may impair absorption of iron, copper, and zinc.5 Based primarily on animal studies, some authorities have suggested that excess intake of phosphate is hazardous to normal calcium and bone metabolism,6 but this idea has been challenged.7 Phosphoric acid–containing fizzy drinks have been implicated in elevated kidney stone risk,8 9 but not all studies have found this relationship.10

Ingestion of excessive amounts of aluminium-containing antacids (such as Di-Gel®, Riopan®, Maalox®, or Mylanta®) can cause phosphorus deficiency.

Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with phosphorus. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

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References
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