Phosphorus

Phosphorus is an essential mineral, and the second most abundant mineral in the body. Eighty percent of phosphorous is found in the bones and teeth. The other 20 percent works in body functions. It is found in every cell of the body.

Information

The recommended amount of phosphorus a person should get each day is similar to that of calcium. The recommended daily allowance, or RDA, for adults is 800 mg. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should get 1200 mg daily.

It is quite easy to get enough phosphorus because it is found in so many foods. Deficiencies are rare. A person who takes an antacid with aluminum hydroxide for a long time could have symptoms of a deficiency, including:

Getting too much phosphorus, from drinking too many carbonated drinks or eating too much meat, can cause adverse affects. High phosphorus levels can interfere with calcium absorption. This can eventually lead to poor bone maintenance and osteoporosis, or brittle bones. Excess phosphorus can also interfere with the absorption of iron.