Fact box

Phosphorous is a multivalent nonmetal of the nitrogen group. In the natural world phosphorous is never encountered in its pure form, but only as phosphates, which consists of a phosphorous atom bonded to four oxygen atoms. …

Phosphorus can be found on earth in water, soil and sediments. Unlike the compounds of other matter cycles phosphorus cannot be found in air in the gaseous state. This is because phosphorus is usually liquid at normal temperatures and pressures. It is mainly cycling through water, soil and sediments.

It is liquid at room temperature and is a metal. Phosphorus belongs to group 15 of periodic table and is a p block element. It exists as solid at room temperature and is non-metal.

Phosphorus was discovered in 1669 by Hennig Brand in Germany. Only the white allotrope or form of phosphorus glows in the dark. Some texts refer to phosphorus as the “Devil’s Element” because of its eerie glow, tendency to burst into flame, and because it was the 13th known element.

This article lists 12 foods that are particularly high in phosphorus.

1. Chicken and Turkey. Share on Pinterest.
2. Pork. A typical 3-ounce (85-gram) portion of cooked pork contains 25–32% of the RDI for phosphorus, depending on the cut.
3. Organ Meats.
4. Seafood.
5. Dairy.
6. Sunflower and Pumpkin Seeds.
7. Nuts.
8. Whole Grains.

A phosphorus deficiency can cause loss of appetite, anemia (low red blood cell counts), muscle weakness, coordination problems, bone pain, soft and deformed bones, a higher risk of infection, a feeling of burning or prickling in the skin, and confusion.

Here are seven methods to help control high levels of phosphorus:

1. Reduce the amount of phosphorus you eat.
2. Take phosphorus binders.
3. Take vitamin D.
4. Take a calcimimetic medicine.
5. Stay on dialysis the entire time.
6. Start an exercise program approved by a doctor.
7. Get an operation to remove some of the parathyroid glands.

Symptoms of too much phosphorus These symptoms include joint pain, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. People with high phosphorus levels can also experience itching and red eyes. Symptoms of more severe cases of high phosphorus may include severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Eggs are a great protein source but also contain 95 mg phosphorus in a large egg. Remove the yolk and phosphorus is only 5 mg for each egg white.

Which foods have phosphorus?

Whole eggs contain calcium, potassium and phosphorus, nutrients which are often restricted in renal diets based on serum levels of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone. Most of the protein is found in the egg white, with 20% of calories from protein carried in the yolk versus 84% in the white [35].

Additives. What is added to coffee can often be more of a problem than the coffee itself. For example, an 8 oz. cup of cafe latte, made without flavored syrup, rolls in at 183 mg of phosphorus and a whopping 328 mg of potassium (4).

Bananas are very high in potassium. One banana has 422mg of potassium. However, patients on peritoneal dialysis may be able to have higher amounts of potassium. These are not only high in phosphorus, but also are high in potassium.

Although egg yolks are very nutritious, they contain high amounts of phosphorus, making egg whites a better choice for people following a renal diet. Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.

The following are a few foods and beverages that now contain hidden phosphorus:

• Flavored waters.
• Iced teas.
• Sodas and other bottled beverages.
• Enhanced meat and chicken products.
• Breakfast (cereal) bars.
• Nondairy creamers.
• Bottled coffee beverages.

High phosphorus levels can cause damage to your body. Extra phosphorus causes body changes that pull calcium out of your bones, making them weak. High phosphorus and calcium levels also lead to dangerous calcium deposits in blood vessels, lungs, eyes, and heart.

Too much phosphorus may calcify the kidneys. “As more phosphate goes through the kidney, it accelerates micro-calcification of the kidney’s tubules,” Block explains. That can depress kidney function and also increase the risk of fatal heart attacks.

Risks associated with too much phosphorus Too much phosphate can be toxic. An excess of the mineral can cause diarrhea, as well as a hardening of organs and soft tissue. High levels of phosphorus can affect your body’s ability to effectively use other minerals, such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.

The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. It plays an important role in how the body uses carbohydrates and fats. It is also needed for the body to make protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues.

Phosphorus is absorbed in the small intestines and stored in the bones. Healthy kidneys get rid of the extra amounts not needed in the body. It is recommended that healthy adults get between 800 mg and 1,200 mg of phosphorus each day.

Nutritionists recommend that healthy adults with normal kidney function get between 700 mg and 1,200 mg of phosphorus each day. However, the average American diet contains much greater amounts of phosphorus, partially due to additives in processed foods.

Some of the vitamins found in honey include ascorbic acid, pantothenic acid, niacin and riboflavin; along with minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc….Table 2.

About 85% to 90% of total body phosphorus is found in bones and teeth. IMMEDIATELY harmful but can cause SEVERE long term damage. The recommended range for dialysis patients is 3.0 to 5.5 mg/dL.

Hyperphosphatemia may be described as high levels of inorganic phosphate in the blood. The normal range for phosphorous is 2.5-4.5 mg/dL. Normal values may vary from laboratory to laboratory.

Double jeopardy foods that are high in both potassium and phosphorus include dairy products, nuts, seeds, chocolate and some whole-grain foods. Whole wheat cereals like wheat flakes and raisin bran, and whole grain hot cereals like oatmeal contain more phosphorus and potassium than refined products.

When your kidneys are not working well, too much phosphorus can build up in your blood. This is called hyperphosphatemia. Your kidneys also help your body use vitamin D. When your kidneys are not working, your body may not be able to use vitamin D like it should.