Phosphorus
PHOSPHORUS was first identified in the urine by a German scientist in 1669. It generated quite a bit of interest because, in the unnatural free form, it glowed in the dark and took fire spontaneously when exposed to air. Subsequently, it was given the name from the Greek word for "light-bringing." Phosphorus is found in bone and rock phosphates, and exists only in combined forms, usually with calcium. The element is present in every body cell, and is involved in all physiologic chemical reactions. It is the second most abundant mineral in the body, with an average adult having 1 to 1½ pounds of the substance.
A major component of bones and teeth, phosphorus occurs in a ratio of roughly 1 part phosphorus to 2.5 parts calcium. The same factors involved in calcium assimilation are also involved with phosphorus uptake. An imbalance between the two minerals results in calcium loss, a major reason for the development of osteoporosis. Since it is prevalent in foods, especially those preserved with phosphates, obtaining too much in the diet is the greater concern rather than that of a deficiency.
It is a critical element in the formation of RNA and DNA, and is present in many enzyme systems.
Phosphorus is not only essential for the growth and formation of bones and teeth, but for normal heart and kidney functioning. It speeds up the healing of broken bones and other injuries and functions is to metabolize fats and starches for energy, as well as being necessary for proper nerve impulses and for niacin assimilation.
Human milk provides an adequate supply for the newborn, but, when additional phosphorus is required for the preterm infant, the mother does not produce more. The need is met through additional feedings.
Names include: P, P-2, P-, element 15, and on commercial labels as calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, or sodium pyrophosphate.
Deficiencies include: decreased appetite, fatigue, nervous system deterioration, demineralization of bones and teeth, cold hands and feet, numbness, hydrocele (a painless swelling of the scrotum), sore breasts, night sweats, continuous diarrhea, constipation, faint/rapid pulse, nosebleeds, increased menses, improper fat digestion, deterioration of memory, anxiety, insomnia, cramps, nerve pain, shooting pains, colic, low fevers, edema, depression, gallbladder deterioration.
Toxicity symptom include: decreased blood and urine calcium levels, kidney failure, and increased phosphorus in the blood.
Inhibitors include: aluminum and an excess of iron or magnesium.
Helpers include: Vitamins A, D, F, boron, calcium, iron, manganese, protein.
