Phosphorus was isolated as a specific and individual element in 1669, by a German
alchemist named Hennig Brand, and is found in all living cells. A crucial part
of life and health, this mineral element is essential to the structure and function
of much of the body.
Phosphorus
is best known as a nutrient for its part in the creation of bones and teeth. It
helps the body absorb and make use of calcium, and with the mineral magnesium,
Vitamin D, and Vitamin C, it serves in the formation of the hard surfaces of bones
and teeth.
It
has a role also in the working of the body's muscular system and is therefore
important to the beating of the heart. It is specifically associated with the
smooth and regular contraction of the body's muscles, as well as with the nerves
and their ability to communicate. Phosphorus also is essential to the proper formation
of cell membranes and the correct creation of genetic material.
Phosphorus
helps in the transformation of nutrients to energy, working with the vitamins
that make up the powerful group known as the Vitamin B complex. In fact, thiamin,
or Vitamin B1, cannot be used by the body without phosphorus, which means that
this mineral also has a role in the digestive system, as well as the nervous system.
It also serves in kidney function and helps regulate the body's pH levels. Iodine
and zinc, which both play an important role in the development and function of
the reproductive system, need phosphorus in order to be properly utilized by the
body.
A
deficiency in phosphorus can have a broad range of negative effects on the health
of mind and body. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include retarded growth in
children, poor formation of teeth and bones which can lead to bone pain and frailty,
irregular breathing patterns, joint stiffness and pain, weight problems, and weakness
and numbness of limbs. Mental symptoms are believed to include anxiety, fearfulness,
irritability and anorexia.
Dedication
to proper nutrition is one of the most important things you can do for the overall
health and well-being of your mind and body. Nutritional supplements can offer
a safe and reliable way to ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to carry
out the many complex chemical functions that keep you alive and healthy.
The
exact requirement for phosphorus is not truly known, although a ratio of 1 to
1 of calcium to phosphorus will give you enough phosphorus for the bulk of age
groups. The recommended daily allowance for most adults is 1200 milligrams.
The
best natural sources for phosphorus are nuts, seeds, cereal grains, meat, poultry,
and fish. If you are a vegan, please be sure you are getting enough phosphorus,
as well as B12.
Editor's
note:
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this article encourages the use of vitamin pills, here at Health & Beyond
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Throughout this website, statements are made pertaining to the properties and/or
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