Phosphorous

Phosophorus is critical for bone health because calcium's effectiveness in building and maintaining bone structure is limited without it. Calcium and phosphorus must both be absorbed in the correct quantities for maximum benefits to bone health. Phosphorus plays an important role in nerve health and communication, as well as facilitating muscle contraction, including the heart muscle. Without phosphorus, the body cannot properly utilize thiamin, zinc, or iodine.

Phosphorus is critical for maintaining healthy pH levels. Low pH indicates an acidic body, which allows disease, including cancer, to thrive. Proper pH levels are important for kidney and urinary tract health.

Phosphorus deficiency can produce a wide range of physical symptoms, including retarded growth in children, poor teeth and bone formation, osteoporosis, joint pain, irregular breathing patterns, weakness and numbness in the extremities, weight-loss, and a higher risk of kidney stones. Mental symptoms may include anxiety, irritability or anorexia.

Phosphorus toxicity produces some of the same symptoms as deficiency, including osteoporosis, arthritis, dental disease, and a higher risk of kidney stones. Toxicity can also cause hypertension, stroke, dizziness, gout, skin eruptions, headaches, and kidney damage.

US Recommended Daily Allowance: 1200 mg

Health Benefits of Phosphorous

Bones Essential for building and strengthening bones. Calcium cannot build bones without phosphorus. Too much calcium inhibits phosphorus absorption.
Heart Helps maintain a strong, steady heartbeat.
Kidneys Regulates kidney function and proper pH levels.
Muscles Required for smooth contraction of the muscles.
Nerves Maintains nerve health and nerve impulse function.
Pregnancy/Postnatal Essential for proper utilization of zinc and iodine for the reproductive system. Essential for the proper formation of genetic material.
Teeth and Gums Essential for building and strengthening teeth. Calcium cannot build teeth without phosphorus. Too much calcium inhibits phosphorus absorption.

Food Sources of Phosphorous

Sapotes 774 mg 65%
Cashews 490 mg 41%
Pumpkin Seeds 332 mg 28%
Amaranth 296 mg 25%
Buckwheat 295 mg 25%
Quinoa 281 mg 23%
Brazil Nuts 205 mg 17%
Sunflower Seeds 185 mg 15%
Wild Rice 134 mg 11%
Hemp N/A N/A