Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a component of DNA and RNA in all living cells, so it is a property that is essential for good health. Facts about phosphorus are interesting, and its uses vary widely, including the use of phosphorus in the creation of some beverages, such as soda water. Baking powder and some processed meats and cheeses also contain phosphorus the nutrient.

The recommended daily intake of phosphorus for a healthy adult is set at 700 mg per day, and those who do not receive this amount will experience a phosphorus deficiency. If a person does not receive enough phosphorus, they can experience muscle weakness, bone pain, severe anemia, and even death. There are many foods with high phosphorus amounts, however, so it is rare for a person to experience a deficiency of the mineral phosphorus unless they are near starvation. This makes phosphorus and diet content easy to control and keep at a normal level.

Since phosphorus is required in all living cells, it is easy to locate phosphorus rich foods. Meat, dairy products and fish are all foods high in phosphorus. Since phosphorus is also an additive to many foods and drinks, foods containing phosphorus can even include beverages, such as soft drinks. Distillers of grain use phosphorus, as well, which creates another source of phosphorus. Because of this, high phosphorus foods are typically a large part of every person’s diet. However, deficiencies can occur when a person takes certain interfering drugs. For example, antacids that contain aluminum can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb phosphorus.

To garner more phosphorus info, there are many phosphorus articles available in medical and science journals, as well as online. You can easily learn about phosphorus, its many uses, and the history. You can learn about how Hennig Brand discovered the vitamin phosphorus in 1669, as well as what its technical name means and how this word has been used. You can easily learn about studies being done on phosphorus and how these can possibly alter the medical treatment of many conditions. Understanding phosphorus, where it comes from, and why humans need it can be beneficial in creating optimal nutrition and health. Most supplemental version of phosphorus only contain a small percentage of the daily goals to prevent excessive amounts of phosphorus. This is the case since there are so many phosphorus sources available through foods and beverages. Avoiding overdose of phosphorus is just as important as avoiding a deficiency, and this and other facts can be learned by reading more information about phosphorus from many sources.