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 soft drinks and packaged foods.
Phosphorus is not often present in supplements except for certain calcium supplements, such as bone meal.
Phosphorus has been used
in connection with the following condition (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings
Health Concerns
Osteoporosis (for
elderly people taking calcium supplements)
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
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 aluminum-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.
How much is usually taken?
Phosphorus supplements are unnecessary. Most multiple vitamin-mineral supplements do not
contain phosphorus for this reason.
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 soft drinks have been implicated in elevated kidney stone risk,89 but not
all studies have found this relationship.10
Ingestion of excessive amounts of aluminum-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.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Pennington JA, Schoen SA. Total diet study: estimated dietary intakes
of nutritional elements, 1982–1991. Int J Vitam Nutr Res
1996;66:350–62.
2. Knochel JP, Agarwal R. Hypophosphatemia and hyperphosphatemia. In
Brenner B, ed. The Kidney, 5th ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders, 1996, 1086–133
[review].
3. Lotz M, Zisman E, Bartter FC. Evidence for a phosphorus-depletion
syndrome in man. N Engl J Med 1968;278:409–15.
4. Heaney RP, Nordin BEC. Calcium effects on phosphorus absorption:
implications for the prevention and co-therapy of osteoporosis. J Am Coll Nutr
2002;21:239–44.
5. Bour NJS, Soullier BA, Zemel MB. Effect of level and form of
phosphorus and level of calcium intake on zinc, iron, and copper bioavailability in man.
Nutr Res 1984;4:371–9.
6. Calvo MS, Park YK. Changing phosphorus content of the U.S. diet:
potential for adverse effects on bone. J Nutr 1996;126:1168S–80S [review].
7. Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference
Intakes, Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary reference intakes for
calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D and fluoride. Washington, DC: National Academy
Press, 1997, 181–6 [review].
8. Shuster J, Jenkins A, Logan C, et al. Soft drink consumption and
urinary stone recurrence: a randomized prevention trial. J Clin Epidemiol
1992;45:911–6.
9. Rodgers A. Effect of cola consumption on urinary biochemical and
physicochemical risk factors associated with calcium oxalate urolithiasis. Urol Res
1999;27:77–81.
10. Curhan GC, Willett WC, Rimm EB, et al. Prospective study of beverage
use and the risk of kidney stones. Am J Epidemiol 1996;143:240–7.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications.
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
