what are the functions of phosphorus in the body course

by Dr. Kyleigh Dietrich DVM 5 min read

  • Energy Production. Phosphorus is commonly found in the body as phosphate. Phosphates play an important role in energy production as components of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate.
  • Protein Synthesis. Phosphorus is a component of deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, and ribonucleic acid, or RNA, long molecules which carry genetic information used to make proteins.
  • Secondary Functions. Phosphorus also acts as a buffer, neutralizing acids to maintain normal pH in the blood. Many enzymes and hormones also contain phosphorus as a structural component.
  • Food Sources and Requirements. Good food sources of phosphorus include protein foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, nuts and legumes, and also cereals and grains.
  • Precautions. Because phosphorus is found in a wide variety of foods, deficiencies are rare, except in diseases that affect absorption, such as diabetes or Crohn’s disease.

The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. It plays an important role in how the body uses carbohydrates and fats. It is also needed for the body to make protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues.Mar 11, 2021

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What best describes the role of phosphorus in the body?

Sep 13, 2021 · The role of phosphorus in the body is to: Allow for strong bone and teeth development - 85% of phosphorus stored here. Allow for energy production, lipid usage and for creation of backbone of ...

What role does phosphorus play in the body?

Jun 24, 2021 · Functions of Phosphorus Phosphorus aid 9 key functions of the body namely bone health, energy production, growth and development, the nervous system, cell membranes, protein synthesis, buffering of the pH of the blood, maintaining the osmotic balance of body fluids and ether attraction.

How does phosphorus affect the body?

If we get too much phosphorus, our body starts using calcium from the bones. It also helps balance vitamin D, iodine, zinc, and magnesium. Doctors …

What does phosphorus do to the human body?

In the form of phospholipids, phosphorus is also a component of cell membrane structure and of the body’s key energy source, ATP. Many proteins and sugars in the body are phosphorylated. In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage.

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Dec 12, 2018 · Phosphorus is an essential mineral primarily used for growth and repair of body cells and tissues. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, all body cells contain phosphorus, with 85...

What is the main function of phosphorus in the body?

About 85% of the body's phosphorus is in bones and teeth. Phosphorous is also present in smaller amounts in cells and tissues throughout the body. Phosphorus helps filter out waste in the kidneys and plays an essential role in how the body stores and uses energy. It also helps reduce muscle pain after a workout.

What are the five functions of phosphorus?

Phosphorus (P) is vital to plant growth and is found in every living plant cell. It is involved in several key plant functions, including energy transfer, photosynthesis, transformation of sugars and starches, nutrient movement within the plant and transfer of genetic characteristics from one generation to the next.

What does phosphorus do in the body quizlet nutrition?

Phosphorus is a mineral found in your bones. Along with calcium, phosphorus is needed for building strong bones, as well as keeping other parts of your body healthy.

What is the role of phosphorus to sustaining life?

Phosphorus, the 11th most common element on earth, is fundamental to all living things. It is essential for the creation of DNA, cell membranes, and for bone and teeth formation in humans.Apr 1, 2013

Why is phosphorus important for the body?

As we have already mentioned, phosphorus plays an important role in ensuring we have strong bones and teeth. It also helps the kidneys filter out waste and works with the body in storing energy and metabolizing nutrients for energy. When we are working out, phosphorus helps to quickly heal the muscles so that we aren't in as much pain. Phosphorus is needed for proper growth, so we actually need greater amounts of it when we are children than in adulthood. We need 1250 mg of phosphorus per day as children but only 700 mg per day as adults (except for pregnant and breastfeeding women; then it is 1250 mg again).

Can a human absorb phosphorus?

Our bo dies are really good at absorbing phosphorus. If we happen to get less phosphorus in our diet, then renal absorption increases. In other words, a human body can increase its ability to absorb phosphorus. As a result, a phosphorus deficiency is really rare. In addition, phosphorous is found in a variety of foods, from fruits and vegetables to meats and grains.

What is the role of phosphorus in the body?

In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage. In humans, phosphorus makes up about 1 to 1.4% of fat-free mass.

How much phosphorus is in the human body?

In humans, phosphorus makes up about 1 to 1.4% of fat-free mass. Of this amount, 85% is in bones and teeth, and the other 15% is distributed throughout the blood and soft tissues [ 1 ]. Many different types of foods contain phosphorus, mainly in the form of phosphates and phosphate esters [ 1 ].

What are the guidelines for a healthy diet?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans describes a healthy dietary pattern as one that: 1 Includes a variety of vegetables; fruits; grains (at least half whole grains); fat-free and low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese; and oils.#N#Some dairy products are rich in phosphorus, and some vegetables, fruits, and grains contain phosphorus. 2 Includes a variety of protein foods such as lean meats; poultry; eggs; seafood; beans, peas, and lentils; nuts and seeds; and soy products.#N#Some meats, seafoods, fish, and nuts and seeds are rich in phosphorus or are good sources of the mineral, and other types of meats, fish, and beans contain phosphorus. 3 Limits foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. 4 Limits alcoholic beverages. 5 Stays within your daily calorie needs.

Is phosphorus a mineral?

Phosphorus, an essential mineral, is naturally present in many foods and available as a dietary supplement. Phosphorus is a component of bones, teeth, DNA, and RNA [ 1 ]. In the form of phospholipids, phosphorus is also a component of cell membrane structure and of the body’s key energy source, ATP.

What is the normal phosphate level in the blood?

In adults, normal phosphate concentration in serum or plasma is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL (0.81 to 1.45 mmol/L) [ 10 ].

Can phosphorus affect phosphate levels?

Phosphorus can interact with certain medications, and some medications can have an adverse effect on phosphate levels. Two examples are provided below. Individuals taking these and other medications on a regular basis should discuss their phosphorus status with their healthcare providers.

Why are fortified foods important?

The federal government’s 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans notes that “Because foods provide an array of nutrients and other components that have benefits for health, nutritional needs should be met primarily through foods. … In some cases, fortified foods and dietary supplements are useful when it is not possible otherwise to meet needs for one or more nutrients (e.g., during specific life stages such as pregnancy).”

What is the function of phosphorus?

What Is the Main Function of Phosphorus in the Body? Phosphorus is an essential mineral primarily used for growth and repair of body cells and tissues. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, all body cells contain phosphorus, with 85 percent found in bones and teeth. There, together with calcium, ...

What is the phosphorus in the body?

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, all body cells contain phosphorus, with 85 percent found in bones and teeth. There, together with calcium, phosphorus provides structure and strength. Phosphorus is also required for a variety of biochemical processes including energy production and pH regulation.

What is the role of phosphates in the body?

Phosphorus is commonly found in the body as phosphate. Phosphates play an important role in energy production as components of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate . ATP is readily used to fuel your body's many functions. Structurally, ATP consists of adenosine, an organic compound, and three phosphate molecules. When bonding between one phosphate and adenosine is severed, energy is released which then fires cellular activity. According to the authors of "Nutrition," energy released from ATP is used quickly, so your body contains only a small amount at any one time.

What is ATP used for?

ATP is readily used to fuel your body's many functions . Structurally, ATP consists of adenosine, an organic compound, and three phosphate molecules. When bonding between one phosphate and adenosine is severed, energy is released which then fires cellular activity.

Where does protein synthesize?

Synthesis begins in the cell nucleus, where a portion of DNA serves as a template for RNA manufacture.

What is the best source of phosphorus?

Good food sources of phosphorus include protein foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, nuts and legumes, and also cereals and grains. Carbonated beverages supply significant amounts of phosphorus in the diet, too. Gordon Wardlaw and Anne Smith, in their book “Contemporary Nutrition,” report that between 20 and 30 percent of dietary phosphorus comes from food additives contained in processed foods. The Institute of Medicine’s Recommended Dietary Allowance for adults is 700 milligrams of phosphorus per day. The Tolerable Upper Intake Limit, or UL, also set by the Institute of Medicine, is 4 grams per day. Intakes above this are considered unsafe.

How much phosphorus is in a diet?

Gordon Wardlaw and Anne Smith, in their book “Contemporary Nutrition,” report that between 20 and 30 percent of dietary phosphorus comes from food additives contained in processed foods. The Institute of Medicine’s Recommended Dietary Allowance for adults is 700 milligrams of phosphorus per day.

What is the role of phosphorus in the body?

Phosphorus works with calcium to help build bones. You need the right amount of both calcium and phosphorus for bone health. Phosphorus also plays an important structural role in nucleic acids and cell membranes. And it’s involved in the body’s energy production.

How does phosphorus work?

How phosphorus works in the body. Phosphorus works with calcium to help build bones. You need the right amount of both calcium and phosphorus for bone health. Phosphorus also plays an important structural role in nucleic acids and cell membranes. And it’s involved in the body’s energy production. Your body absorbs less phosphorus ...

What is phosphorus found in?

Phosphorus is a mineral found in many foods like beer, cheese, beans, and fish. It is also one of the most common substances in your everyday environment and in your body. It plays an important role in the health of your kidneys, bones, muscles, and blood vessels, as well as each cell in your body.

What is it called when you have too much phosphorus?

Insufficient phosphorus is referred to as hypophosphatemia. Hypophosphatemia occurs when phosphorus levels in your blood get too low. This causes your energy levels to drop. It can also cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and a low tolerance for exercise.

What are the symptoms of high phosphorus levels?

Some of this condition’s symptoms overlap with those of low phosphorus. These symptoms include joint pain, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. People with high phosphorus levels can also experience itching and red eyes.

How does phosphorus affect the kidneys?

How phosphorus affects the kidneys. Your kidneys help remove excess phosphorus from your blood, keeping your levels balanced and normal. Your phosphorus levels can get too high when your kidneys aren’t working correctly. This can also cause your calcium levels to rise.

Why is phosphorus high?

Your phosphorus levels can get too high when your kidneys aren’t working correctly. This can also cause your calcium levels to rise. Dangerous calcium deposits can potentially form in your heart, blood vessels, eyes, and lungs.

Where is phosphorus found in the body?

It is the 2nd most abundant mineral in the body. It exists in every cell of the body. Most of the phosphorus in the body is found in the bones and teeth.

What are the main sources of phosphorus?

The main food sources are the protein food groups of meat and milk. A diet that consists of the correct amounts of meal strategy calcium and protein will also offer sufficient phosphorus.

What are the functions of phosphorus?

Functions of Phosphorus in the Body 1 P takes part in formation of bones and teeth. 80 to 85% of body P is in bones. The inorganic part of the bone is mainly in the form 3Ca3(PO4)2Ca (OH)2 with carbonates absorbed on it. 2 P forms a part of high energy compounds such as ATP, UTP, etc. 3 It is a constituent of nucleic acids, both DNA and RNA, which are of great importance from the standpoint of protein synthesis, viruses and heredity. 4 It is a constituent of phospholipids such lecithins, cephalins, plasmalogens, etc. 5 It is an important constituent of cell memberanes. 6 Phosphates are the most abundant anions present with in tissue cells. 7 The Plasma phosphate takes part in buffer action concerned with pH regulation because it occurs in 2 forms, i.e. HPO4= and H2PO4. 8 Phosphates form ester with sugars, e.g. glucose-6-phosphate, fructose-6-phosphate, etc. which take part in carbohydrate metabolism.

What is the role of P in the body?

P takes part in formation of bones and teeth. 80 to 85% of body P is in bones. The inorganic part of the bone is mainly in the form 3Ca3(PO4)2Ca (OH)2 with carbonates absorbed on it. P forms a part of high energy compounds such as ATP, UTP, etc.

What are the nutrients in food that are rich in calcium?

Foods rich Calcium (Ca) are also generally rich in Phosphorus (P) and include milk (93 mg%), beans, cereals, egg yolk and meats . A large part of the vegetable P exists as phytates of Ca and Mg which are insoluble and are largely not absorbed. A disadvantage of the phytates is that they interfere with the absorption of Ca, zinc and iron.

What is the inorganic part of bone?

The inorganic part of the bone is mainly in the form 3Ca3(PO4)2Ca (OH)2 with carbonates absorbed on it. P forms a part of high energy compounds such as ATP, UTP, etc. It is a constituent of nucleic acids, both DNA and RNA, which are of great importance from the standpoint of protein synthesis, viruses and heredity.

What is P in chemistry?

P forms a part of high energy compounds such as AT P, UTP, etc. It is a constituent of nucleic acids, both DNA and RNA, which are of great importance from the standpoint of protein synthesis, viruses and heredity. It is a constituent of phospholipids such lecithins, cephalins, plasmalogens, etc.

Where is P excreted?

Upto 80% of P is excreted in urine and the rest by the intestine. The plasma inorganic P is freely filtered by the renal gloparathyroid hormone increases P excretion in the urine.

What is the most abundant source of calcium?

Foods rich Calcium (Ca) are also generally rich in Phosphorus (P) and include milk (93 mg%), beans, cereals, egg yolk and meats. A large part of the vegetable P exists as phytates of Ca and Mg which are insoluble and are largely not absorbed.

What is the role of phosphorus in the body?

These are minerals that the body needs to function normally. Although the main function of phosphorus is to build and maintain bones and teeth, it also plays a major role in the formation of DNA and RNA (the genetic building blocks of the body).

What is the function of phosphorus?

Although the main function of phosphorus is to build and maintain bones and teeth, it also plays a major role in the formation of DNA and RNA (the genetic building blocks of the body). Doing so helps ensure that cells and tissues are properly maintained, repaired, and replaced as they age.

Is phosphorus a macromineral?

Phosphorus is also considered a macromineral (alongside calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, chloride, and sulfur) in that you need more of it than trace minerals like iron and zinc. A deficiency of phosphorus is usually accompanied by hypophosphatemia , or low blood phosphate levels, which can affect every organ system ...

What happens if you don't have phosphorus?

A deficiency of phosphorus is usually accompanied by hypophosphatemia , or low blood phosphate levels, which can affect every organ system of the body and may lead to muscle weakness, bone pain, fractures, seizures, and respiratory failure. Unlike certain micronutrients, the body cannot produce phosphorus on its own.

Can you get phosphorus from food?

Unlike certain micronutrients, the body cannot produce phosphorus on its own. You need to obtain it from food and, if needed, a dietary supplement (phosphate is the drug form of phosphorus). The best food sources for phosphorus are meat, dairy, oily fish, and seeds. Verywell / JR Bee.

Where is phosphorus stored in the body?

Around 85 percent of phosphorus in the human body is stored in bone. The rest is freely circulating in the bloodstream to facilitate other biological functions. Phosphorus works with calcium to help build healthy bone and teeth.

Can phosphate supplements cause numbness?

People with chronic kidney disease may need to avoid phosphate supplements. Since the kidneys are less able to clear phosphate from the body, the mineral may accumulate and lead to hyperphosphatemia (excessively high phosphorus levels). Symptoms may include rash, itching, muscle cramps, spasms, bone or joint pain, or numbness and tingling around the mouth.

What is the role of phosphorus in the body?

Phosphorus is an element that plays an important role in the body. In the body, almost all phosphorus is combined with oxygen, forming phosphate. Phosphate is one of the body's electrolytes, which are minerals that carry an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids such as blood, but the majority of phosphate in the body is uncharged.

Why is phosphate important?

Phosphate is necessary for the formation of bone and teeth. Phosphate is also used as a building block for several important substances, including those used by the cell for energy, cell membranes, and DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The body obtains phosphate from foods and excretes it in urine and sometimes stool.

Where is phosphate found in the body?

Bone contains about 85% of the body’s phosphate. The rest is located primarily inside cells, where it is involved in energy production. Phosphate is necessary for the formation of bone and teeth. Phosphate is also used as a building block for several important substances, including those used by the cell for energy, cell membranes, ...

What is phosphate used for?

Phosphate is also used as a building block for several important substances, including those used by the cell for energy, cell membranes, and DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The body obtains phosphate from foods and excretes it in urine and sometimes stool.

What is Merck and Co?

Merck and Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA (known as MSD outside of the US and Canada) is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world.

When was the Merck Manual first published?

The Manual was first published in 1899 as a service to the community. The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Manual in the remainder of the world. Learn more about our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge.

Where is Merck and Co. located?

MSD and the MSD Manuals. Merck and Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA (known as MSD outside of the US and Canada) is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well.

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