Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a mineral found in the food you eat. It is present in high quantities in meats, whole grain breads, processed foods, cola beverages, cheese, dried beans, dried peas, liver, peanut butter, dairy products and chocolate.

About 85% of the phosphorus in the body is in bones. Phosphorus is the body’s next most abundant mineral after calcium. The body uses phosphorus to form strong bones and teeth, maintain a normal pH balance, get oxygen to tissues, make energy, change protein, fat and carbohydrate into energy, develop connective tissues and organs, move muscles, produce hormones and use B vitamins.

Relate articles on DaVita.com

• Phosphorus and Chronic Kidney Disease
• Potassium, Phosphorus and the Dialysis Diet

Videos on DaVita.com

• DaVita.com Videos - Diet & Nutrition

External links

• Phosphorus – Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University
• Article: Association of serum phosphorus and calcium x phosphate product with mortality risk in chronic hemodialysis patients: a national study.

Organizations

• American Dietetic Association