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. (See also Overview of Electrolytes.)
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 bones 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. Foods that are high in phosphate include milk, egg yolks, chocolate, and soft drinks. To maintain a normal level of phosphate in the blood, adults need to consume 700 milligrams a day.
Phosphate is excreted from the body in urine and sometimes stool. How much phosphate is in stool varies, depending on how much is not absorbed from food.
The level of phosphate in the blood may be
Too high (hyperphosphatemia)
Too low (hypophosphatemia)
More Information
The following English language resource provides information that may be useful. THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Phosphorus Fact Sheet for Consumers: provides a general overview of phosphorus, including its role in the body and daily nutrition requirements
