Too much versus too little PHOSPHORUS (P)

Phosphorus is regarded as a true inorganic growth hormone, distributed in the form of insoluble salts, 80 % in the bones and teeth and the rest in the soft tissue.

Phosphorus plays an important role in the metabolism of lipids and polysaccharides, in the absorption of vitamin PP and in activating most of the B group vitamins. It plays an essential role in releasing the energy needed by the nervous and glandular systems. It also takes part in the composition of nucleic acids, in the synthesis of proteins, in the multiplication of cells and in the transmission of hereditary characteristics.

A lack of phosphorus can show itself in irritability, states of anxiety, asthenia, paraesthesia, joint pain, disturbances in the formation of the bones and teeth, muscle weakness, bone pain, heart failure and changes in liver function.

An excess of phosphorus is very rare and occurs mostly in infants fed with cow's milk or conventional milk powder with a high casein content. In adults it occurs in chronic kidney failure, hypoparathyroidism and excessive dietary intake.

Phosphorus occurs in milk and dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, dried pulses, cereal seeds and white, dark or wholemeal flour. Fresh vegetables and fruit contain smaller amounts of phosphorus: garlic, celery, onions, tomatoes, carrots, grapes, walnuts, almonds.